It's a clear message to step up our own support, ramping up our European defense capacities, not only at the level of the European Union, but at the continental level,' von der Leyen told a press conference in Aarhus,

Analysts say Ukraine’s European allies can fill some of the gaps and provide artillery systems. But they don’t possess alternatives to the U.S.-made HIMARS missiles and air defense systems, especially Patriots, which are crucial to help defend Ukrainian cities.

IN RECENT WEEKS Ukraine has endured some of the most intense drone and missile bombardments since the start of Russia’s full-on invasion three years ago. There could scarcely be a worse time for America to halt the delivery of precious air-defence equipment.