The Pentagon announced it is reassessing weapons deliveries to allies worldwide due to rising concerns about dwindling US stockpiles of critical munitions, including anti-air missiles.
The move follows the White House’s confirmation that it is limiting weapons shipments to Ukraine as part of a broader review of American military assistance abroad, with officials citing a need to “put America’s interests first.”
Among the suspended shipments are long-range Himars missiles, 155mm artillery shells, and Patriot anti-air missiles — systems vital for Ukraine’s defense against Russian missile attacks.
This decision comes after recent reports revealed the US had used hundreds of interceptor missiles to help protect Israeli and Qatari cities from Iranian strikes during last month’s conflict, depleting US reserves.
On Wednesday, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the review could affect countries beyond Ukraine, but he declined to specify which allies might see delays or reductions. Notably, Israel, which sources about 68% of its foreign weapons from the US, could be among those impacted.
“A capability review is underway to ensure our military aid aligns with US defense priorities,” Parnell stated. “We won’t provide updates on specific quantities, types, or delivery timelines for munitions to Ukraine or others. But let it be clear: our military remains fully prepared to conduct any mission, anywhere in the world.”
Ukrainian officials warned the pause in arms shipments would severely undermine their ability to fend off escalating Russian attacks. Kyiv summoned the acting US envoy to stress the urgency of continued military support, cautioning that delays would embolden Russia rather than encourage peace.
The review is reportedly overseen by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, a key figure in the so-called “prioritiser” camp — a group of policymakers pushing for the US to focus military resources on countering China in the Indo-Pacific rather than conflicts in Europe or the Middle East. Their stance has gained traction among influential Republicans, including Vice-President JD Vance, a vocal critic of aid to Ukraine.
“For years, we were sending weapons without truly assessing our own needs,” Parnell said. “This administration was elected to put America first, and our job is to ensure the president has a clear picture of our stockpiles and how we deploy them.”
