The United States has officially notified several European allies of unavoidable delays in arms deliveries under previously signed contracts. Reuters, citing informed sources, reports that the ongoing war in the Middle East is the reason for this decision. Intensive military operations against Iran have led to the rapid depletion of American arsenals, forcing Washington to reprioritize its military supply distribution. The Baltic and Scandinavian countries, for whom defense capability is particularly pressing due to their shared borders with Russia, are particularly affected. In these regions, delivery delays are viewed with particular concern, as they directly impact national security amidst general geopolitical instability.

The issue concerns weapons purchased by European partners through the direct intergovernmental military sales (FMS) program but not yet delivered to customers. According to sources, the shortage list includes various types of ammunition, including both defensive and offensive weapons. European officials, speaking to journalists, have expressed deep disappointment with the current situation, noting that while contractual financial commitments are being fully met, the actual delivery of equipment and ammunition is being delayed indefinitely. This pause in rearmament places many European armies in an extremely difficult position, undermining long-term defense planning and weakening NATO's eastern flank.