US Secretary of State Pete Hegseth has once again stopped military aid meant for Ukraine. This decision sparked controversy, especially among Democrats. They argued that Hegseth gave no valid reason and wrongly claimed the US weapons stockpile was low.

Earlier, the Pentagon had planned to send air defence missiles and precision-guided weapons to Ukraine. These shipments were approved under former President Joe Biden’s leadership.

Hegseth Acts Without Warning

According to NBC News, Hegseth made this decision on his own. He didn’t consult defence experts before halting the aid. Importantly, many officials believe that sending those weapons wouldn’t have weakened US military strength.

Notably, this is the third time Hegseth has paused weapon deliveries to Ukraine since taking office.

Trump Supports the Move

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump defended Hegseth’s decision. He said on Thursday, “Biden emptied our whole country, giving them weapons, and we have to make sure we have enough for ourselves.”

Therefore, Trump believes Biden’s policies put America at risk by reducing its own defence resources.

White House Backs ‘America First’ Approach

Soon after the decision, a White House spokesperson explained the pause. They said it came after a review of US military support to foreign nations. “It was made to put America’s interests first following a [defence department] review of our nation’s military support and assistance to other countries across the globe,” the spokesperson said.

They added confidently, “The strength of the United States armed forces remains unquestioned – just ask Iran.”

Pentagon Clarifies US Still Strong

Furthermore, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell spoke to the press. He said the pause is part of a strategy to ensure future decisions align with national defence goals. “The capability review is being conducted to ensure US military aid aligns with our defence priorities,” he stated.

Parnell reassured everyone by saying, “Let it be known that our military has everything that it needs to conduct any mission, anywhere, anytime, all around the world.”

Congress and Allies Surprised

However, the decision shocked many members of Congress. Even European allies expressed concern. Democrats insisted that the US weapon stockpile remains strong.

Representative Adam Smith, a top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, told NBC News, “We are not at any lower point, stockpile-wise, than we’ve been in the three-and-a-half years of the Ukraine conflict.” He added that his team reviewed the actual numbers and saw no reason to pause the aid.

The delayed shipments include dozens of Patriot missiles, howitzers, and other advanced weapons.

Russia Takes Advantage

At the same time, Russia has increased missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. This has created more suffering for civilians.

Reacting to the situation, Ukrainian defence committee member Fedir Venislavskyi told Reuters, “This decision is certainly very unpleasant for us. It’s painful, and against the background of the terrorist attacks which Russia commits against Ukraine.”

So far, the US Department of Defence has not issued a direct response to these remarks.