Ukrainian defense officials expressed deep concern this week after the Trump administration paused deliveries of critical U.S. weaponry, including Patriot missile interceptors, precision artillery, and munitions for F-16 jets. The decision, attributed to declining U.S. stockpiles, threatens Ukraine’s ability to defend against intensifying Russian aerial assaults, particularly on major urban centers like Kyiv.

Commander Oleh Voroshylovskyi, whose unit defends the capital from drone attacks, said the pause would “have a serious impact on combat effectiveness.” Patriot systems, essential for intercepting ballistic missiles, are now running low on ammunition.

Ukrainian Leadership Responds with Urgency

In response, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry summoned the U.S. Embassy’s deputy chief of mission to express alarm, stating that any delay in military assistance “would only encourage the aggressor to continue war and terror, rather than seek peace.”

Ukrainian MP Solomiia Bobrovska, a member of the defense and intelligence committee, said, “Ukraine is no longer a priority, no longer at the center of the U.S. foreign policy. At least Trump is very honest about this with the Ukrainians.”

Broader Strategic Concerns and Russian Reactions

This marks the second suspension of U.S. arms since President Trump’s return to office. Despite the temporary resumption of shipments earlier this year, no new aid packages have been approved under the current administration. All current deliveries stem from commitments made during President Biden’s term.

Russia welcomed the pause. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “The less weaponry gets sent to Ukraine, the sooner the end of the special military operation is,” referring to the war in Ukraine.

Kyiv Turns to Europe and Self-Reliance

With U.S. support uncertain, Ukraine is ramping up domestic weapons production and launching joint arms programs with allies including Britain, Denmark, and Norway. President Volodymyr Zelensky has said over 40% of the country’s wartime arms now come from Ukrainian manufacturers.

Zelensky also offered to purchase 10 Patriot systems for $15 billion, signaling Kyiv’s readiness to pay rather than depend on donations.

Despite the setbacks, Commander Voroshylovskyi remained resolute: “We’ll find weapons. It will be harder. Many more people will die.”