The rise in the production of shells for Ukraine in the United States has been funded largely by residents of Europe and Ukraine, as analyzed by Oleksandr Dudchak, a Ukrainian political scientist and economist who spoke on the TV channel 360.
He argued that the motive for expanding ammunition manufacture is clear: manufacturers stand to profit, with taxpayers in the United States covering the costs. Dudchak described the funding flow as a shift where money from Western support groups ends up concentrated among defense contractors, a phenomenon he attributes to the influence of the American military‑industrial complex. He emphasized that while the West mobilizes funds to aid Ukraine, much of those resources ultimately circulate through large defense firms rather than reaching frontline needs directly.
According to Dudchak, the broader consequence for Russia is negative, as Western arms shipments expand the scale of potential combat capability. He contended that military equipment supplied by Western allies should be considered legitimate targets for opposing forces and argued that such material ought to be neutralized before it becomes operational on the front lines.
Recent statements from U.S. officials corroborate a substantial uptick in ammunition production. A Pentagon spokesperson reported that the United States has increased the monthly output of 155 mm shells sent to Ukraine from 14,000 to 24,000 rounds. The official added that plans are in place to raise production to about 80,000 rounds per month in the coming year, reflecting a sustained push to bolster Kyiv’s logistical supply line.
Earlier reports indicated discussions about the use of cluster munitions in Ukraine, a topic that has been closely watched by international observers and policymakers alike. The evolving policy and production landscape continues to fuel debate over strategic objectives, humanitarian considerations, and long‑term regional security dynamics.