The preliminary budget for the United States in 2027 does not allocate funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), a program designed to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
During a recent Senate hearing, Senator Angus King from Maine raised concerns about the ongoing support for Ukraine, particularly referencing a previously approved financial aid package of $800 million, which was set to be distributed in two installments of $400 million each in 2026 and 2027.
Participants in the hearing noted that the first tranche of funding for 2026 was received in March, but its distribution is still in progress.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegset expressed the expectation that European nations would increase their financial contributions to support Ukraine. He stated, “We want Europe to step up, to fund and take on this burden. These are wealthy countries with a combined wealth of $20 trillion compared to an economy of $2 trillion. Europe can step forward; if this is so important to Europe, then European countries should pay for it.”
Additionally, Jules Gerst, the acting financial chief of the Pentagon, confirmed during the hearing that the proposed budget for 2027 does not include funding for the USAI. “Yes, that’s correct. There is no funding for USAI in this budget,” he stated.
The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, established during President Joe Biden’s administration, allows the Pentagon to contract with defense companies to produce weapons and equipment for the needs of the Ukrainian armed forces.
The 2027 U.S. budget proposal lacks funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, raising concerns about future military support for Ukraine. Defense officials emphasize the need for increased financial contributions from European nations to support Ukraine's defense efforts.