Pentagon Policy Shift May Redirect Ukraine Weapons to US Stockpiles

A recent memo from the Pentagon’s policy chief introduces a significant change in the United States’ approach to military support for Ukraine. This policy allows the Defense Department to redirect certain weapons and equipment, originally intended for Ukraine, back into US stockpiles. According to individuals familiar with the memo, this shift could potentially divert billions of dollars in military aid away from Ukraine as the US seeks to replenish its dwindling supplies.

The implications of this policy come at a critical juncture, especially with President Donald Trump poised for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week. While Trump has approved a plan to sell US weapons to Ukraine through NATO, concerns linger within the Pentagon regarding the balance between supporting Ukraine and maintaining US military readiness. The memo, penned by Elbridge Colby, the Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, raises questions about the future of US arms shipments to Ukraine.

In a notable move, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth paused a significant package of weapons shipments to Ukraine last month in line with the new policy. Following this pause, Trump reversed Hegseth’s decision, reaffirming the commitment to provide defensive weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing Russian attacks. This back-and-forth highlights the tension within the Pentagon regarding the allocation of resources to Ukraine versus the need to sustain US military readiness.

The memo includes a previously unreported clause that permits the Pentagon to redirect weapons specifically produced for Ukraine under the congressionally funded Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). This initiative, established in 2016, was designed to ensure a steady flow of military support to Ukraine. While reports indicate that weapons have not yet been diverted, the provision poses a risk of depriving Ukraine of essential military supplies, valued at billions of dollars, expected to arrive in the coming months.

As part of the ongoing budgetary process, the Senate recently allocated an additional $800 million to the USAI. Yet, uncertainty looms over the fate of these funds and whether they will ultimately benefit Ukraine under the new Pentagon policy. Previous administrations had viewed the diversion of USAI-produced weapons as a violation of the Impoundment Control Act, which mandates congressional oversight of allocated funds.

The proposed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2026 reflects some pushback against the new policy. Lawmakers have suggested that weapons can only be redirected back into US stockpiles if they have not yet been transferred to Ukraine and are deemed unnecessary for ongoing training and support activities. This ensures that Congress retains some control over the process.

The memo’s introduction aligns with the Trump administration’s broader strategy to shift the responsibility of arming Ukraine onto European allies. Colby has previously advocated for preserving US stockpiles in anticipation of potential conflicts, such as a future confrontation with China. Apart from the USAI, the Pentagon has approximately $4 billion remaining in funding authority to provide weapons directly from US stockpiles to Ukraine. Some NATO allies have urged the US to utilize this funding to enhance pressure on Russia, with proposals for reimbursement for the costs incurred.

To facilitate the procurement of weapons for Ukraine, the Pentagon is collaborating with NATO on a new system that would allow European allies to contribute funds for weapon purchases. This mechanism, described as a NATO bank account, would enable Ukraine to submit direct requests for military supplies, which would be sourced from US stockpiles.

During a recent meeting, Trump mentioned this arrangement, emphasizing that while the weapons would be manufactured in the US, European partners would cover the costs. Reports suggest that NATO allies aim to establish an initial investment of $10 billion in this fund, with commitments already exceeding $1 billion for arming Ukraine.

Despite these initiatives, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical of US concerns regarding diminishing stockpiles. The ongoing need for sophisticated air defense systems, such as the Patriot missile system, is pressing as Russia intensifies its aerial bombardment of Ukraine. In July alone, the Ukrainian Air Force reported a staggering 6,443 drone and missile attacks.

The evolving situation underscores the complex interplay between domestic military readiness and international commitments. As the Pentagon navigates these challenges, the future of US support for Ukraine remains uncertain.