The United States has discreetly suspended arms sales to its European allies, citing concerns over domestic defense needs and the potential depletion of its own military equipment.
The sudden change in approach was first signaled in discussions with Denmark over a potential purchase of an air defense system worth billions of dollars.
According to The Atlantic, US and French negotiators had aggressively pursued the deal for weeks, but the Pentagon lost interest as the deadline approached.
US Prioritizes Domestic Defense Needs
The US has decided to prioritize its own defense needs, with concerns that some types of weapons may be in short supply.
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby expressed skepticism about selling Patriot systems, citing their scarcity and priority for US defense.
Potential for Rift with Allies
The suspension of arms sales could lead to conflicts with European allies and reduce their defense capabilities in the face of potential Russian aggression.
This move may also result in lost revenue, jobs, and reduced industry growth in the defense sector.
Previous Reports of US Funding Cuts
Earlier reports indicated that the US might cut security funding for countries bordering Russia, including Latvia, Estonia, and Romania, but not Poland.
The aim was to encourage NATO allies to allocate more of their own budgets to defense.
