**Ukraine Denies Receiving Official Notice of Pause in US Military Aid**
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has issued a statement denying that it had received official notification from the United States about the suspension or rescheduling of previously approved military aid packages. This move comes after media reports suggested that Washington had paused some weapons deliveries to Ukraine.
According to the ministry, they are working to verify the current status of all elements in the agreed aid packages and have requested a phone call with US defense officials for further clarification. “Ukraine has not received official notices regarding the suspension or revision of the delivery schedules of agreed defense assistance,” the statement read.
**US Decision Sparks Concerns in Ukraine**
The reported pause in weapons shipments to Ukraine is attributed to concerns about declining US stockpiles, particularly for key air defense and precision munitions. These withheld items include Patriot air defense missiles, precision artillery rounds, Hellfire missiles, and other munitions used by Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry summoned US Charge d’Affaires John Ginkel on July 2 to express concern over the reported pause in weapons shipments. Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa warned that any delay or hesitation in supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities would only encourage Russia to continue war and terror, rather than pursue peace.
**Russia Welcomes Reported Move**
The Kremlin has welcomed the reported move, with its spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, stating that “the fewer weapons that are supplied to Ukraine, the closer the end of the (war).” This comes as Ukraine faces intensifying Russian attacks, including a record 5,337 Shahed-type attack drones launched at Ukrainian targets in June.
**Context and Implications**
The move by the US is part of a broader reassessment of American military aid to foreign partners. The White House confirmed that the decision was made to put America’s interests first following a review of US military support and assistance to other countries.
As Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression, this development raises concerns about the country’s ability to defend itself. The pause in US military aid shipments may have significant implications for Ukraine’s war effort and its ability to counter Russia’s military actions.
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