NATO Chief Urges U.S. Flexibility on Military Aid to Ukraine

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has expressed concern over the Trump administration’s decision to halt certain arms deliveries to Ukraine. In remarks reported by Bloomberg, Rutte emphasized the need for a flexible U.S. approach to ensure Kyiv has the tools it needs for self-defense.

According to Rutte, it is understandable that the United States must manage its own weapons stockpiles, which are critical to the collective security of the Alliance. Still, he stressed, supporting Ukraine must remain a shared priority.

“Of course, the U.S. needs to ensure its reserves are at the required level — that’s vital for NATO’s readiness,” Rutte said. “But at the same time, we hope for flexibility. Ukraine must be able to move forward.”

Rutte added that given Russia’s clear unwillingness to pursue a ceasefire, the Alliance must be confident that Ukraine is equipped to continue defending itself.

“It’s evident that Russia is not interested in stopping the war. That means we, as partners, must ensure Ukraine has everything it needs to carry on the fight,” he said.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed a temporary halt in shipments of artillery shells and air defense systems to Ukraine, citing critically low reserves required to address other global security threats. The announcement coincided with a sharp escalation in Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv.

In response to the attacks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to resume the suspended arms deliveries and consider selling additional defense systems. According to sources familiar with the conversation, the two leaders agreed to organize a separate meeting between their respective defense teams to explore options for bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses and broader military needs.

Rutte’s remarks mark the first direct call from NATO leadership for the Trump administration to reconsider its stance on military aid, signaling growing concern among allies about Kyiv’s ability to hold the line without continued U.S. support.