Security experts warn Pentagon's decision to withhold promised defense systems from Ukraine may embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermine leverage for ceasefire talks as Russia escalates.

Elbridge Colby’s memo highlighting U.S. weapons shortages influenced the decision to pause some arms shipments to Ukraine.

The Pentagon last week announced that it would hold back some weapons pledged to Ukraine because of what U.S. officials said were concerns that American stockpiles were in short supply.

When a reporter asked Tuesday who approved the pause, President Trump responded curtly: "I don't know. Why don't you tell me?"

The U.S. halts Patriot missile shipments to Ukraine during global review of military aid priorities, sparking debate over defense resource allocation while balancing worldwide commitments.

The U-turn was announced during a White House dinner Mr Trump was hosting for Binyamin Netanyahu, the visiting Israeli prime minister. Sitting next to him Pete Hegseth, America’s defence secretary, nodded in assent,

Russia launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine of the conflict to date on July 3, days after the Pentagon paused weapons deliveries to Ukraine.

The Pentagon and U.S. military officials in Europe are working with NATO members to ship more Patriot missile systems to Ukraine and release more munitions that were briefly halted.