The United States has already suspended various missile and artillery shipments to Ukraine. This decision is made as tensions soar in the protracted war against invading Russian military. President Donald Trump’s first in-person meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled for Thursday at 10 a.m. ET. This conversation intersects with Pete Hegseth’s ongoing review of America’s munitions stockpile.
This decision to halt weapon shipments has raised concerns about the effectiveness of U.S. support for Ukraine, which is currently fighting to defend its territory against the ongoing Russian invasion. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has underscored again and again, this defense support is absolutely critical. In particular, he urges for air defense systems to secure the nation’s sovereignty.
Sean Parnell, the spokesperson for the Pentagon, joined us on to explain these recent changes. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to delivering strong options for military assistance to Ukraine to President Trump. He noted the Pentagon’s comprehensive re-examination of military readiness. Simultaneously, it seeks to harmonize U.S. defense priorities with Trump’s “America First” agenda.
“This capability review, and that’s exactly what it is, going forward, we see this as a common sense pragmatic step towards having a framework to evaluate what munitions are sent and where.” – Sean Parnell
So it’s promising that Hegseth has ordered a “top to bottom” review to ensure U.S. military forces are prepared and ready. This shift is equally meant to respond to changing realities in domestic and global security. This halt in shipments comes amid a broader landscape in which all of America’s military resources are being scrutinized with great care.
As Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State under Trump’s first term, described the gravity of the call. He noted that there has been no call for American troops from Ukraine—instead, they’re calling for weapons and support to protect themselves from the Russian assault. He added that if Russia won this fight, it would be one of the greatest catastrophes for American security interests around the world.
“Letting Russia win this war would be an unmitigated disaster for the American people and our security around the world.” – Mike Pompeo
In a statement about U.S. military strength, Anna Kelly noted, “The strength of the United States Armed Forces remains unquestioned — just ask Iran,” underscoring the belief in American military capabilities despite current challenges.
While the dancing clowns amuse, Zelenskyy has been insistent that his people be kept safe against this chaotic landscape. He stated, “One way or another, we must ensure protection for our people,” highlighting the urgency of continued support from allies.
Trump is already preparing for his first meeting with Putin. Civil society advocates and international experts alike are watching closely, waiting to see how this crucial dialogue will shape security dynamics globally and in the war in Ukraine. The result of this strategic pause and review remains to be seen. While this may be a disappointing outcome, it’s evident that we need to make our domestic priorities match our international obligations in the weeks and months ahead.