**US Halts Ukraine-Bound Weapons in Poland, Citing “Capability Review”**
The US has temporarily halted the shipment of advanced air defense systems and precision missiles to Ukraine, which were already staged in Poland. The move comes as Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine intensifies, with Ukrainian forces facing increased missile and drone strikes.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal on July 2, the Pentagon confirmed that the halt is part of an ongoing “capability review” aimed at ensuring US military assistance aligns with its strategic defense priorities. The shipment in Poland includes over two dozen PAC-3 Patriot missiles, more than two dozen Stinger air-defense systems, Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, and over 90 AIM air-to-air missiles intended for use with Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets.
The pause has sparked a backlash from both sides of the US political aisle. Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, called the decision “unacceptable,” while Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal labeled it “fallacious and maybe even disingenuous.”
**Ukraine Faces Intensified Russian Strikes**
As Russia’s invasion continues, Ukraine faces intensified missile and drone strikes. On June 29, Russia launched its largest aerial assault against Ukraine since the start of its full-scale invasion in February 2022, targeting civilian infrastructure and cities far beyond the frontline.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the urgency of continued Western support for Kyiv on July 2. “I totally understand that the US always has to make sure its interests are covered,” he said. “But in the short term, Ukraine cannot do without all the support it can get.”
**No Timeline for Resumption**
The Pentagon has not provided a timeline for when the held-back shipments might resume. The halt comes at a critical moment for Ukraine, which relies heavily on Western military aid to counter Russian aggression.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Ukraine needs every bit of support it can get from its Western allies to counter Russia’s intensifying campaign of missile and drone strikes.
**Commentary**
This move by the US has sparked concerns that Washington may be pulling back on its commitment to Ukraine. While the Pentagon cites a “capability review” as the reason for the halt, the timing is suspect, especially given the current intensity of Russian aggression against Ukrainian forces.
The fact that both sides of the US political aisle are speaking out against this decision suggests that there is a growing consensus in Washington about the need for sustained support to Ukraine. As NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted, “Ukraine cannot do without all the support it can get” – at least not in the short term.
**What’s Next?**
The US halt on Ukraine-bound weapons shipments will likely be closely watched by allies and adversaries alike. Will Washington reconsider its decision, or will other Western powers step in to fill the gap?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Ukraine’s survival depends on continued support from its Western allies.
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