In **February 2022**, Ukrainian forces faced a shortage of **ammunition** for outdated Soviet artillery amid Russian aggression.
The U.S. began searching for **foreign artillery shells** to assist Ukraine but faced challenges due to limited supply and old stockpiles.
A pivotal conversation between **Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III** and Gen. Mark A. Milley initiated the U.S. shipment of howitzers and shells to Ukraine.
This arms pipeline has redefined how the U.S. forms **alliances**, effectively drawing on relationships with non-NATO militaries.
The Ukraine Defense Contact Group is set to meet for the **final time in Germany** under the Biden administration, reflecting on the coalition's impact.