The White House says pause in Ukraine arms deliveries is routine Pentagon review

The White House clarified that the recent pause in weapons shipments to Ukraine is part of a routine Pentagon review of all U.S. military aid worldwide, not a targeted suspension.

“This was a standard review by The Pentagon of all weapons, aid, and support the United States is providing to countries and regions across the globe—not just Ukraine,” White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing.

Responding to questions about whether the decision came directly from President Donald Trump or Pentagon leadership, Leavitt said, “No, neither of those things are true.”

She explained that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the review upon taking office, with the aim of ensuring all military assistance aligns with U.S. strategic interests.

“It’s a pause to review—to ensure that everything The Pentagon is pushing out there is in the best interest of our military and our men and women in uniform,” she added.

The Pentagon also addressed the review last week, saying it continues to provide President Trump with “robust options” for aiding Ukraine, while staying focused on ending the war.

“At the same time, the department is rigorously examining and adapting its approach towards achieving this objective while also preserving U.S. military readiness and defense priorities that support the president’s America First agenda,” said Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.

He added that no details would be shared about the quantities, types, or timelines of military support for Ukraine during the ongoing review.

Ukrainian officials have warned that delays or reductions in foreign defence assistance could embolden Russia to prolong its military campaign.

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