Trump Starts Selling Weapons to Ukraine

The Trump administration has informed the U.S. Congress of its intention to grant a $50 million military export license to Ukraine through direct commercial sales (DCS). This was reported by the Kyiv Post, citing sources within diplomatic circles.

It is noted that this marks the first time since Trump returned to the White House more than 100 days ago. Until now, the U.S. administration prioritized diplomatic means over military aid to end the war in Ukraine.

The announcement regarding the sale of $50 million worth of weapons to Ukraine was submitted to Congress in accordance with the Arms Export Control Act, which empowers the President of the United States to regulate the import and export of defense articles and services. The official notification was received by Congress from the U.S. Department of State’s Legislative Affairs Office.

Michael Sesserin, a researcher at the non-profit, non-partisan Rand Corporation’s Center for Security Policy, believes that if U.S. military assistance to Ukraine continues—whether through extending previous aid packages or using a mechanism for expedited presidential weapons transfer—it will only strengthen the U.S. bargaining position.