The United States has halted shipments of Patriot missiles and other key munitions to Ukraine, according to Politico and NBC News sources. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly later verified this information to reporters.
Pentagon political director Elbridge Colby reportedly ordered the pause following an assessment of U.S. military stockpiles, Politico's sources revealed. Defense officials reportedly grew concerned about declining inventories of artillery shells, anti-aircraft missiles, and precision-guided weapons.
"This pause ensures America's security priorities come first after reviewing our global military assistance. Our armed forces' capabilities remain unmatched—just look at Iran's experience," Kelly stated, as quoted by Politico.
NBC News detailed that the suspension impacts dozens of Patriot missiles, thousands of 155mm artillery rounds, over 100 Hellfire missiles, 250+ GMLRS rockets, plus multiple grenade launchers, Stinger missiles, and AIM air-to-air missiles.
Ukraine's Defense Ministry responded that it had received no formal notice about altered or canceled deliveries of pledged military aid. Officials sought urgent talks with U.S. counterparts for clarification.
The decision coincides with escalating frontline combat and persistent Russian airstrikes against Ukrainian urban centers.
[Update 14:58 MSK] Added Ukrainian Defense Ministry's response.