"We must reorient our thinking to national interest and national security," White House spokesman Anna Kelly told the Financial Times in a statement, adding that the move was based on a review of the Department of Defence. She said the decision was needed "to put America's interests first."

Kyiv said the suspension, in particular of key weapons such as Patriot air defence missiles, could have a serious effect on Ukraine's capacity to fend off stepped-up Russian airstrikes. Russian forces have escalated aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities in recent weeks as they slowly advance on the eastern front.

Ukraine Calls in U.S. Diplomat, Warns of Consequences
In a tit-for-tat move, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called in Washington's most senior diplomat in Kyiv, chargé d'affaires John Hinkel. Any "delay or procrastination" in providing military support would simply reinforce Russia's aggression, the ministry said.

The Ministry of Defence had also earlier issued a statement on Telegram expressing "extreme concern" and saying the U.S. had not informed it of its decision, and it had requested a call with U.S. counterparts to discuss the issues. The ministry emphasised that consistent and sustainable support was crucial.

"It is of critical importance for Ukraine to ensure stability, continuity and predictability of providing Ukraine with coordinated international defence assistance, primarily in enhancing the air defence capabilities."

Still, Ukrainian officials thanked the United States for its support so far. They repeated that they need the continued support from the military and collaborative international pressure to secure peace and prevent further Russian escalation. Talks between Ukraine and Russia are currently deadlocked, with no breakthrough in sight.