The US Department of Defense plans to utilize all remaining funds allocated for Ukraine support programs before the end of President Joe Biden’s term, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh announced during a press briefing.
Republican Donald Trump, who campaigned against continued support for Ukraine in favor of focusing on domestic priorities, won the presidential election, raising concerns about future US military assistance to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
The Pentagon currently has approximately $4 billion available through the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) and about $2 billion under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). The PDA allows for direct transfers from US stockpiles, while USAI funds new equipment orders from manufacturers.
“You will continue to see assistance packages in the coming weeks until the end of this administration’s term. This aligns with our past practice – we’ve done this regularly, almost weekly,” Singh said, according to Voice of America.
According to Singh, some equipment reaches Ukraine within days or weeks, while other items may take longer, depending on US stockpile availability.
“We always consider capabilities that Ukraine needs on the battlefield, that Ukrainian forces can use, and that will have the most impact,” she added.
Singh points to bipartisan support for Ukraine aid in Congress, noting that “Republicans and Democrats have made commitments to Ukraine through votes and funding.” She adds that any new administration will work with Congress to shape future Ukraine support policies.
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