The budget standoff between Republicans and Democrats in the United States is now impacting the country’s foreign policy. According to a report by Axios citing State Department officials, planned arms sales to NATO allies Denmark, Croatia, and Poland have been suspended due to the ongoing shutdown.

The delayed shipments include AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, Aegis combat systems, and HIMARS multiple rocket launcher systems. Officials note that these sales often serve as indirect military support for Ukraine, raising concerns about weakening U.S. strategic influence over European security.

Congressional Approval Process Frozen

Under U.S. law, all arms sales proposals must be reviewed and approved by Congress. However, as the government remains closed, many State Department employees have been placed on temporary leave, effectively halting the review process.

A department official stated, “The shutdown is paralyzing not only domestic administration but also defense diplomacy.”

Government Closed Since October 1st

The federal government has been shut down for 40 days after Republicans and Democrats failed to reach a budget agreement before the new fiscal year began on October 1st. Since Congress could not approve a temporary spending bill, the government lost its authority to spend funds.

Some moderate Democrats in the Senate have expressed support for a stopgap measure that would fund the government through the end of January. If passed, the bill will move to the House of Representatives and, if approved there, be sent to the White House for final approval.

What the Shutdown Means

Under U.S. law, if Congress fails to approve the budget, the government must continue operations through temporary funding bills. When even that fails, the so-called “government shutdown” takes effect, halting all non-essential federal activities.

During this period, employees in non-essential services are placed on unpaid leave, while personnel in the military, intelligence agencies, public hospitals, airports, and prisons continue working—though they usually do not receive pay until a new budget is passed.