**NATO Chief Urges Continued US Support for Ukraine Amid Pause in Arms Shipments**
In a recent interview with Fox News, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the urgent need for sustained Western support to Ukraine. His comments come as the U.S. Defense Department has halted deliveries of key weapons systems previously promised to Kyiv.
Rutte acknowledged that the U.S. has its own defense needs to consider, but stressed that Ukraine cannot afford to wait. “I totally understand that the U.S. always has to make sure its interests are covered,” he said. “When it comes to Ukraine, in the short term, Ukraine cannot do without all the support it can get.” The pause in shipments includes Patriot missiles, precision-guided artillery shells, Hellfire missiles, and munitions compatible with F-16 fighter jets.
The White House confirmed the pause in deliveries, citing a broader reassessment of U.S. military stockpiles. This move has been met with concern from Ukraine’s Defense Ministry, which has requested urgent consultations with U.S. defense officials. The Foreign Ministry also summoned U.S. Charge d’Affaires John Ginkel, warning that any hesitation in maintaining Ukraine’s defense capabilities would embolden Russia.
**What Does it Mean for Ukraine?**
The halt in arms shipments comes at a critical time for Ukraine, which is facing one of the heaviest barrages of Russian drone and missile strikes since the start of the full-scale invasion. The Ukrainian government has been relying on Western support to bolster its defenses, and the pause in deliveries will undoubtedly be seen as a setback.
“This is not just about military aid; it’s about demonstrating commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office. “Any hesitation or delay in providing this support will only embolden Russia and undermine our efforts to defend ourselves.”
**What Does it Mean for US-Russia Relations?**
The Kremlin has welcomed the halt in arms shipments, stating that it brings the war closer to an end. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, “The fewer weapons that are supplied to Ukraine, the closer the end of the (war)”. This move is likely to be seen as a victory for Russia and a sign that the US is reevaluating its priorities.
The U.S. Defense Secretary has previously indicated that the upcoming defense budget will scale back long-term military support for Ukraine, reflecting a shift in Washington’s priorities. This decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the war in Ukraine and the broader relationship between the US and Russia.
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