**US Halt on Arms Shipments to Ukraine Stuns European Allies**
The Trump administration’s decision to pause deliveries of critical military aid to Ukraine has left European partners scrambling for answers. The move, reported by Bloomberg on July 2, has raised concerns about the impact on Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
According to sources, the hold affects the delivery of several key weapons, including Patriot air defense missiles, precision-guided artillery shells, Hellfire missiles, and munitions for F-16 fighter jets. The White House confirmed the pause, citing a broader reassessment of US military stockpiles since President Donald Trump took office in January.
**Concerns Over Russian Aggression**
The timing of the pause is particularly concerning as Ukraine faces one of the most intense waves of Russian missile and drone attacks since the start of the war. Some European allies hope that the Trump administration will soften or reverse the decision, fearing it may embolden Russia to further aggression.
In his evening address on July 2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukrainian and US officials are working through the aid issue at a “working level,” including discussions on critical air defense support. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has requested urgent consultations with US defense officials, while the Foreign Ministry summoned US Charge d’Affaires John Ginkel, warning that any hesitation in military support would encourage further Russian aggression.
**Kremlin Welcomes Decision**
The Kremlin welcomed the decision, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov saying that “the fewer weapons that are supplied to Ukraine, the closer the end of the war.” This statement suggests that Russia sees the halt on arms shipments as a sign that they may soon emerge victorious in the conflict.
**International Reaction**
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed understanding of Washington’s desire to safeguard its stockpiles but emphasized that “Ukraine cannot do without all the support it can get.” US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had previously signaled a shift in policy, indicating that future defense budgets would prioritize domestic needs over military support for Ukraine.
The halt on arms shipments to Ukraine has caught European allies off guard and highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Western powers. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the decision will have far-reaching implications for the conflict and its impact on global security.
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