According to two sources familiar with the decision, President Donald Trump will be sending weapons to Kyiv under a presidential power that his predecessor often utilized. This marks the first time Trump has taken such action since returning to office, indicating a renewed interest in supporting Ukraine’s defense.
After more than three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Trump administration is planning to allocate weapons from U.S. stockpiles to aid Ukraine through the Presidential Drawdown Authority. The value of the arms to be sent is estimated at around $300 million.
Trump recently announced plans to send additional weapons to Ukraine to assist in countering escalating Russian aggression. While the exact equipment to be included in the package is yet to be finalized, it could comprise defensive Patriot missiles and offensive medium-range rockets. A decision on the specific armaments is expected to be made at a meeting on Thursday.
The administration had previously only dispatched weapons approved by former President Joe Biden, a strong advocate for Kyiv. The Presidential Drawdown Authority empowers the president to utilize weapons reserves to support allies in urgent situations.
The Pentagon and White House have not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter. Trump’s position on defending Ukraine has been inconsistent, with conflicting statements regarding U.S. spending, Russia, and Kyiv. The U.S. still has $3.86 billion remaining in the Presidential Drawdown Authority designated for Ukraine, with the most recent allocation of $500 million under Biden on January 9.
Ukraine’s primary requests are Patriot missile interceptors and GMLRS mobile rocket artillery, which are likely to be part of the upcoming weapons package. The proximity of stocked weapons in Europe could lead to a swift deployment to the front lines.
Earlier this month, the Trump administration had temporarily paused some approved weapon shipments under Biden, although some of these deliveries have since resumed. Congress has sanctioned nearly $175 billion in aid and military support for Ukraine and its allies over the past 3-1/2 years following Russia’s large-scale invasion.
