Rutte expects US to show 'flexibility' on weapons for Ukraine

He stated that the US must ensure its stockpiles are sufficient, but at the same time recognize that Ukraine needs to be able to move forward.

“The US has to make sure that the stockpiles are at the level we need for the US to have, because they are crucial for our collective defense. At the same time, of course, we hope for the flexibility, we have to make sure also that Ukraine can move forward,” Rutte said to journalists.

What preceded this

Earlier this week, the Pentagon announced a halt to the supply of artillery shells and air defense missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns that stockpiles had been depleted too much.

The US is weighing the need to preserve weapons to defend against other security threats.

Notably, the suspension affects aid that was allocated during the Biden administration. The decision coincided with intensified Russian strikes on Kyiv and other cities.

US ready to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses

Yesterday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump held a phone conversation. According to Zelenskyy, among other topics, they discussed the supply of air defense systems and Russia’s nighttime attacks on Kyiv.

“Today, we discussed the situation — including Russian airstrikes and, more broadly, the situation on the front lines. President Trump is very well informed, and I thank him for his attention to Ukraine. We talked about possibilities for air defense and agreed to work together on strengthening the protection of our skies. Our teams will also meet to continue this dialogue,” the Ukrainian president said.

Additionally, Axios reported that Trump promised Zelenskyy assistance with the supply of air defense systems.

“Trump said he wants to help with air defense and that he will check what was put on hold, if anything,” a source told the outlet.