Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the need for Ukraine to prepare for a potential halt in American arms supplies, although he stated that no such signals have been received at this time. During a press briefing, Zelensky noted that preparations are essential given the unpredictable nature of international military support.
“Currently, we have not received any signals indicating that arms supplies through the PURL mechanism might cease,” Zelensky said, referring to the program through which allies procure American weapons for Ukraine. He mentioned that earlier this year, he advised Ukrainian military leaders to brace for the possibility that U.S. assistance could be reduced or come at a cost.
Zelensky indicated that Ukraine is now focusing on increasing its domestic production of drones rather than relying solely on artillery shells. He also pointed out that access to Patriot missile defense systems may not always be guaranteed. “With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, there could be other reasons for supply disruptions. We must develop our own defense industry comprehensively, which is already underway,” he added.
He highlighted a particular shortage of anti-ballistic missiles, stressing the importance of working towards self-sufficiency or establishing joint production with partners. “We have ideas in place to address these gaps,” he affirmed.
In related developments, the Financial Times reported that former President Donald Trump threatened European allies with a suspension of arms supplies to Ukraine under the PURL program unless they joined efforts to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. Following this, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker indicated that Trump is reassessing not only the country’s NATO membership but also its support for European initiatives in Ukraine.
Furthermore, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that while the U.S. is not redirecting arms purchased by NATO countries for Ukraine to the Middle East, he did not rule out such a possibility in the future.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has called for preparations for a potential cut in U.S. arms supplies, despite currently receiving no indications of such a change. He emphasized the importance of bolstering domestic production capabilities and diversifying military resources to ensure Ukraine's defense amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Source: Укрінформ