The Pentagon confirmed Wednesday that $400 million in congressionally approved funding for Ukraine security assistance has been released, following bipartisan criticism over delays.
Testifying before lawmakers, War Secretary Pete Hegseth said, "The department recognizes that $400 million was allocated for European capacity building, and as of yesterday, it has been released."
Pressed by Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., on when the funds would translate into support on the ground in Ukraine, Hegseth responded, "That depends on what they buy with the money," adding that U.S. European Command would guide how the funds are used.
Elfreth, citing frustration from Senate Republicans, including Sen. Mitch McConnell, criticized the delay and emphasized Ukraine's broader role in U.S. security.
"Despite some public belittling, Ukraine has stepped up perhaps more than any other ally for us in the Middle East," she said, pointing to Kyiv's efforts to intercept Iranian drones threatening U.S. and partner forces.
The exchange reflects growing bipartisan concern on Capitol Hill that funds approved months ago were not deployed more quickly.
In a Washington Post opinion piece, McConnell accused the Pentagon of allowing Ukraine aid to "collect dust" and faulted War Department officials for failing to communicate with Congress.
He argued that supporting Ukraine is a direct investment in U.S. security, boosting the domestic defense industrial base and strengthening deterrence against adversaries including Russia, Iran, and China.
McConnell also criticized what he described as a pattern of hesitation by both the Biden and Trump administrations, warning that slow-rolling aid weakens Ukraine's battlefield position and undermines prospects for a stable peace.
He further argued the U.S. risks falling behind in key areas such as drone warfare by not fully leveraging Ukraine's battlefield innovations.
The delayed funding and ongoing debate underscore broader tensions between Congress and the Pentagon over Ukraine policy, as lawmakers from both parties push for faster execution of aid and closer strategic coordination with Kyiv.
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