Pentagon blocks Ukraine support with no threat in sight, reports say

However, an analysis by the Pentagon's Joint Staff showed that the transfer of ammunition does not threaten the defense capabilities of the US army.

According to the journalists' sources, the suspension was initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has blocked aid to Ukraine for the third time.

His move surprised the State Department and allies in Europe. It also caused outrage among both parties in the US Congress.

Democrat Adam Smith said that the Pentagon's arguments about the lack of stockpiles were false, as no real threat had been detected.

"We are not at any lower point, stockpile-wise, than we’ve been in the 3½ years of the Ukraine conflict," Smith said.

Blocking of weapons packages

The suspension concerns another package of weapons that is already partially in the region.

The package includes precision-guided munitions, including Patriot, GMLRS, Hellfire missiles, and other weapons that could protect Ukrainian cities from Russian attacks.

According to sources, Hegseth's decision was supported by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, who is a supporter of reorienting US resources to deter China in the Indo-Pacific region.

"We can’t give weapons to everybody all around the world," said Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.

Ukraine is calling on the United States to unblock the supply, as the latest Russian attacks have become the largest since 2022, with 60 missiles and nearly 500 drones fired at the country last week alone.

US arms supply halt

The White House has announced a pause in the supply of Patriot missiles, guided bombs, and artillery shells to Ukraine. These weapons are key to Ukraine's defense, especially in the area of escalating hostilities.

US officials have said that the munitions will not be delivered to Ukraine for several months.