NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte issued a careful but categorical criticism of the United States' decision to temporarily suspend the supply of some types of weapons to Ukraine.
In an interview with Fox News, he stressed that while he understands Washington's concern about its own military stockpiles, in the short term Kiev cannot cope without support.
"I understand the need for the United States to take care of its own stockpiles," Rutte said. "But as for Ukraine, in the short term, it cannot afford to be deprived of all support - especially in terms of ammunition and air defense systems."
The United States announced that it was temporarily suspending some arms deliveries to Ukraine, including anti-aircraft missiles and precision-guided munitions, due to concerns about depleted resources at the Pentagon. According to NBC News, the decision was made personally by Defense Secretary Pete Hegsett after ordering a comprehensive review of US military stockpiles.
Sources say that the deliveries will be frozen at least until this assessment is completed. If resources prove to be limited or needed on other fronts - including the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific - the interruption could be extended.
NATO's response reflects growing concern among European allies that domestic political considerations and global U.S. commitments could limit their ability to support Ukraine's defenses at a crucial moment in the war.