U.S. Delays Patriot Missiles, 155mm Shells Supply to Ukraine Citing Low Stockpiles

The United States has delayed the shipment of several key weapon systems to Ukraine, including Patriot air defense interceptors and 155mm artillery shells, citing concerns over dwindling domestic stockpiles, according to reports.

The decision follows an internal review ordered by Elbridge Colby, the Department of Defense's chief policy adviser, which found certain U.S. inventories too low to support continued deliveries abroad without risking national readiness.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said the move reflects a broader reassessment of U.S. military aid globally.

“This decision was made to put America’s interests first following a review of our nation’s military support and assistance to other countries across the globe,” Kelly stated Tuesday.

Among the weapons being held back are PAC-3 Patriot interceptors, 155mm high-explosive fragmentation shells, over 100 Hellfire missiles, more than 250 GMLRS (Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems), dozens of Stinger missiles, AIM air-to-air missiles, and grenade launchers.

Officials described the PAC-3 missiles as particularly critical, given their role in intercepting ballistic and aeroballistic missile threats.

A Pentagon spokesperson, Sean Parnell, emphasized that the U.S. military remains “ready and capable,” noting that upcoming Congressional defense spending bills are expected to modernize U.S. systems for long-term deterrence.

This development comes at a challenging time for Ukraine, as Russia intensifies aerial attacks amid one of the war’s most active phases. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had recently reiterated Kyiv’s need for Patriot systems during a NATO summit meeting with President Donald Trump.

Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s request but emphasized competing needs.

“They do want to have the antimissile missiles, OK, as they call them – the Patriots,” Trump said. “We’re going to see if we can make some available. We need them, too.”

Since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has supplied Ukraine with over $66 billion in security assistance. However, the current review could signal a shift in U.S. posture as the Trump administration promotes a more restrained global military role.

According to defense official Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon is now reassessing its strategy:

“The department is rigorously examining and adapting its approach while preserving U.S. forces’ readiness for current defense priorities.”

U.S. allies in NATO, especially in Eastern Europe, have also been hesitant to transfer their limited stock of Patriot systems, underscoring broader concerns about regional security amid ongoing Russian aggression.

While no timeline has been announced for resuming shipments, officials indicate further reviews and budget adjustments may shape future aid packages to Ukraine.