MemoMemorandumBiden · D

Presidential Memorandum

Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

This memorandum delegates presidential authority to the Secretary of State to direct a drawdown of up to $400 million in Defense Department defense articles, services, and military education and training to provide assistance to Ukraine under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

Impact dates

  1. Federal Register publication directed but no date specified

Key directives

  • Delegate authority under Section 506(a)(1) of FAA to Secretary of State
  • Authorize drawdown of up to $400 million in DoD defense articles and services and military education and training for Ukraine
  • Direct publication of memorandum in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Up to $400 million drawdown authority becomes exercisable

Near term (90d)

  • Potential execution of defense articles and services drawdown for Ukraine

Long term

  • Sustained U.S. military assistance to Ukraine through presidential drawdown mechanism

Risks & tensions

  • Drawdown reduces U.S. military stockpiles; replenishment timing uncertain
  • Continues pattern of executive-branch reliance on drawdown authority for Ukraine aid, reducing congressional appropriation visibility
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 · Executive Orders