Nearly $6 billion in U.S. assistance earmarked for Ukraine is set to expire by the end of the month unless Congress acts to prolong the Pentagon’s ability to provide weapons from its arsenal to Kyiv, according to American officials. The Biden administration has requested that Congress include the funding provision in any ongoing resolution before the fiscal year ends on September 30 to prevent a government shutdown and continue funding aid programs. The hope is to extend this authority for another year; however, the Defense Department is exploring alternative options if this endeavor falls through.
The Defense Department will consider utilizing the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) which enables the quick transfer of weapons to Ukraine if the extension request is not approved, officials revealed. Around $5.8 billion in PDA is set to expire at the month’s end, although an additional $100 million in PDA will remain accessible. Furthermore, there is over $4 billion accessible through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative until September 30, 2025, which is designated for weapons contracts that have longer delivery timelines.
General CQ Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, mentioned that as the Defense Department’s comptroller presents options to senior defense and military leaders, they will explore utilizing the PDA and USAI funding to support Ukraine, particularly in readiness for winter combat operations. Various military aid packages have been continually announced by the U.S., with the Pentagon indicating that it is collaborating with Congress to extend authorities allowing the provision of military assistance to Ukraine.
Failure by lawmakers to extend PDA funding would pose a severe setback in Ukraine’s conflict against Russia, reminiscent of earlier gridlock that hindered crucial funding approval for Ukraine. Delays in providing $61 billion for Ukraine earlier this year led to challenging battlefield conditions as Ukrainian forces faced ammunition shortages, allowing Russian advances. Following renewed funding, U.S. military supplies have been instrumental in Ukraine’s advancements, including their recent encroachment into the Russian Kursk region.
