The United States has stepped up efforts to overcome bureaucratic obstacles preventing the use of $6 billion in military aid for Ukraine. The Pentagon has until October to obtain an extension of authorization to send weapons from its stockpile to Ukraine, according to US officials.
The Biden administration has asked Congress to include appropriate funding authority in any resolution that lawmakers may pass before the end of the fiscal year, September 30, 2024. This will not only ensure the continuity of funding for the federal government, but also avoid a possible shutdown.
“This decision is of strategic importance for Ukraine. If the funding is not extended, it could significantly affect the country’s ability to receive the necessary weapons on time,” said Pavlo Kostyuk, founder of the Ukraine Reconstruction Fund.
In addition, the U.S. government is exploring additional ways to continue support if current efforts fail. According to U.S. officials, approximately $5.8 billion in Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) funds are at risk of being canceled. At the same time, about $100 million under the PDA remains available until the end of the month.
“The supply of weapons from US stockpiles through the PDA has become one of the key tools to support our defense capabilities. Therefore, the resumption of funding is a critical issue that will affect the security of the whole of Europe,” added Pavlo Kostyuk.
In addition, more than $4 billion remains available under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which expires on September 30, 2025. However, these funds can be used to finance arms contracts that will not be delivered for the next year or more.
