US rebuilding weapons rapidly, says Trump
Washington, July 27
US President Donald Trump on Monday said his administration is rapidly rebuilding America's weapons stockpiles, arguing that military inventories had been depleted by large-scale assistance to Ukraine under former President Joe Biden but insisting the United States remains well prepared for any future conflict.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while travelling to Michigan, Trump dismissed concerns that the United States could face ammunition shortages if another major conflict were to erupt, including in the Middle East.
"No, we have money. We have a lot of ammunition. Different types," Trump said when asked whether he was concerned about depleted stockpiles.
He acknowledged that Washington had transferred substantial quantities of military equipment to Ukraine but said his administration was moving quickly to replenish those inventories.
"You know, Biden gave a lot to Ukraine. And so we're building that up, but we have a lot," Trump said. "We have a lot of the mid-level stuff too. I mean, more than we could ever use no matter what."
The President contrasted the current situation with his first term, saying he had inherited limited ammunition stocks from the Obama administration before expanding production.
"When I left, the cupboards were full. When I came here with Obama, he didn't buy ammunition. We had very little. And I got it built," Trump said.
"Now, as soon as I left, they gave a lot of it to Ukraine. I mean, numbers that nobody's ever seen before."
Trump said the administration has launched a broad effort to expand US defence manufacturing, with multiple new production facilities under construction.
"We're building it very rapidly. Plants are being built. A lot of equipment's being built. The Patriots in particular are being built," he said.
"Every one of our contractors is building four to five plants right now."
The President said the United States remains in a strong military position despite the need to replenish some sophisticated weapons.
"We're in very good shape. But, for some of the more sophisticated stuff, we'd certainly like to have more. Biden gave a lot of it away," he said.
His remarks came as the administration continues to emphasise rebuilding America's defence industrial base while responding to multiple security challenges, including the conflict involving Iran and continued support for allies.
Trump also defended Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, rejecting suggestions that he had received poor military advice during the recent conflict with Iran.
"No, I think he's done a great job," Trump said.
The United States has also undertaken a broader expansion of its defence industrial base since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, increasing production of artillery shells, missiles, air defence interceptors and other munitions.
— IANS
Reader Comments
So the US is basically admitting they gave away too much to Ukraine and now they're scrambling to replenish. Meanwhile, countries like India, which have historically maintained strategic autonomy, have to watch these power games. At least we don't depend on others for our security. Jai Hind! 🙏
It's good that Trump is being transparent about rebuilding, but the bigger question is: how does this affect global stability? India has always been a voice for peace, not war-mongering. The US should focus on diplomacy, not just flexing military muscles. Just my humble opinion.
As an Indian watching this from abroad, I feel like the US is just playing the same old game. Trump says "we have more than we could ever use" – but then why give so much to Ukraine? 😏 India's approach of being friendly with everyone but dependent on none is far smarter.
Trump is right about one thing – Biden gave away too much. But doesn't that make the US look weak? India has always believed in strategic partnerships, not one-sided largesse. We need to keep building our own defence capabilities and not rely on any foreign power. Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence is non-negotiable!
This just confirms what many of us suspected – the US is in a bit of a pickle after the Ukraine war. But let's be honest, India has its own challenges at our borders. We should learn from this: always have enough for your own defence before helping others. #IndiaFirst 🇮🇳
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