Zelensky on US Weapons Supply Halt: No Signals Yet, But We Must Be Prepared

During a recent press conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his views on the possibility of the United States halting arms supplies to Ukraine. According to a report by Ukrinform correspondent, the head of state stated that there are currently no indications that such a cessation of arms supplies might occur. "So far, we have not received any signals indicating that there could be a halt in arms supplies through PURL," Zelensky emphasized, highlighting the importance of a strategic approach to this issue.

Zelensky also stressed the necessity of being prepared for various scenarios, as circumstances can change rapidly. "Back in 2023, we held a meeting, and I told our military that we must prepare for the possibility that assistance from the United States could stop or be limited and not free of charge. We need to diversify our supplies and reduce expenditures on certain scarce weapons, shells, and so on. I advised them to start preparing for the moment when, even for money, Ukraine might not receive weapons," the president recalled.

According to Zelensky, since that time, Ukraine has begun to focus on drone production, which has become a significant step in the context of changing strategy. "Regarding artillery shells, it was clear that from 2-3 thousand, our war raised their price to 7 thousand. This is simply a fact. And if we need a minimum of 3-3.5 million shells – and drones were not available in such volumes at that time, while Russia was ramping up artillery production, and it is unknown how long the war will last – it is clear that no amount of money would suffice for artillery. Yes, of course, we started building our own lines for 155mm caliber and many guns, but the biggest bet was placed on drones. And it worked – now everyone at the front sees the results," the head of state noted.

Additionally, the president highlighted that missiles for the Patriot systems may not always be available. "Currently, there is a war in the Middle East, and there may be other reasons in the future. We must build our own independent defense-industrial complex in all aspects. Essentially, that is what we are doing. We have a shortage of anti-ballistic missiles. Therefore, we need to work to ensure that we have our own. Or shared with some of our partners. There are relevant ideas," Zelensky stated, underscoring the importance of independence in the military sphere.

It is worth noting that last month, U.S. President Donald Trump demanded that NATO naval forces assist him in opening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran effectively closed following the onset of American-Israeli attacks. However, European capitals refused, stating that it was impossible while the conflict continues, with some also noting that it is "not our war." According to the Financial Times, Trump threatened to halt arms supplies for PURL – a NATO initiative for purchasing weapons for Ukraine, funded by European countries.

Thus, the situation surrounding arms supplies and military assistance to Ukraine remains tense, and President Zelensky has called for a strategic approach and preparation for any changes in international support.