The majority of U.S. aid “to Ukraine” is spent IN the United States rather than directly in Ukraine. This is because much of the aid consists of military assistance in the form of weapons, ammunition, and equipment that is produced by U.S. defense contractors and then sent to Ukraine. Here’s a breakdown of how the aid is typically allocated:
1. Military Aid (Largest Portion)
• A significant portion of U.S. military aid is drawn from the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which transfers existing U.S. military stockpiles to Ukraine. This means the U.S. military gives Ukraine weapons it already has, and then the U.S. government uses taxpayer money to replenish its own stockpiles by purchasing new weapons from American defense contractors like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and General Dynamics.
• The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) provides funding to directly purchase new weapons and military equipment from U.S. companies rather than sending existing stockpiles.
• This means that the bulk of U.S. military aid is spent in the U.S. on weapons manufacturing rather than in Ukraine itself.
2. Economic and Humanitarian Aid
• Some U.S. funds go directly to Ukraine’s government to help pay for salaries, pensions, and public services.
• Humanitarian assistance includes food, medical supplies, and refugee support, with some aid delivered through international organizations.
• These funds are more likely to be spent in Ukraine but still involve U.S. organizations and contractors.
3. Loans and Financial Support
• Some aid comes in the form of loans or financial assistance to stabilize Ukraine’s economy. These funds may be used inside Ukraine but are often tied to U.S. conditions or institutions.
Estimated Breakdown
• Military aid (weapons, equipment, training, and logistics): ~85%+ spent in the U.S.
• Economic and humanitarian aid: More likely to be spent in Ukraine, but some funds still flow through U.S. and international entities.
While the exact percentage varies by aid package, a large portion of the total U.S. aid never actually reaches Ukraine in the form of direct cash but instead benefits U.S. defense companies and military suppliers.
quotingWe don't agree, but I also don't think it's relevant. The question is, how far are you willing to go? Ukraine can't stand against Russia on their own. Are you willing to give up 5% of you paycheck for the Ukraine? What about 10%? 50%? For how long? Are you willing to fight and die for Ukraine?
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Personally, I'd rather have peace.