Description: The US Department of Defense (DOD) has stated that a review of the US arms stockpile prompted the halting of weapons supply to Ukraine as part of the Trump’s administration, America First policy. The information was ill received by Ukrainian officials as the US envoy to Ukraine was called after the announcement. Ukraine expressed concerns over their aerial defensive capabilities as well as munitions supply which are still largely dependent on consistent US support. President Zelenskyy has stated the halting of arms supplies would additionally embolden Russia which is planning a summer offensive as the largest battle currently unfolds in Donetsk. Russia’s Dmitry Peskov approved the cessation of arms supply and stated that it would enable the war to end in a shorter period of time. The DOD began the inspections of the US arms stockpile due to significant shortages spent on supplying Israel in its defense against Iran’s ballistic missiles during the 12 – day war.
Impact: The DOD review and the cessation of weapons supply to Ukraine, emphasizes that US strategic interests and priorities currently position Israel’s defense on the pedestal. Without the consistent supply of arms from the US, Ukraine could lose complete control over its skies which have been under heavy pressure from recent Russian drone and ballistic missile strikes. Recent findings by the South Korean intelligence service (NIS), indicate that North Korea would additionally support Russia with up to 30 thousand soldiers, which further jeopardizes Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid Russia’s intention to pressure ground offensives in the summer. With negotiation efforts stalled, Ukraine would be solely reliant on arms supplies from its European allies, which have been inconsistent as they are facing constant internal political divisions and have adopted a disjointed strategy in supporting Ukraine.