Ukraine Faces Weaponry Shortfall as U.S. Military Aid Pauses

European nations explore ways to fill critical gaps in Ukraine's defense capabilities, including air defense systems and artillery, as U.S. aid deliveries halt.

The U.S. pause in military aid, including Patriot missiles and HIMARS systems, threatens Ukraine's ability to defend against Russian ballistic missile and drone attacks.
European countries are considering providing alternatives, such as SAMP/T air defense systems, but these have limited capabilities compared to U.S.-supplied weapons.
Ukraine is ramping up domestic arms production, with plans to meet artillery shell needs by year-end, but financial and logistical challenges remain.
Repair and maintenance of Western-supplied equipment, including tanks and howitzers, are critical, with European repair facilities working to sustain Ukraine's arsenal.
Russia is reportedly planning to escalate drone and missile strikes, increasing pressure on Ukraine's air defense systems and infrastructure.