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MemoMemorandumBiden · D Quiet signal

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 the drawdown of up to $2.5 billion in Department of Defense defense articles, services, and military education and training to provide assistance to Ukraine under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. It also requires the Secretary of State to make the determinations necessary to direct such drawdowns.

Federal Register Open PDF 88 FR 4891

Impact dates

  1. Publication in Federal Register (directed but no specific date stated)

Key directives

  • Delegate to Secretary of State authority under section 506(a)(1) of FAA to direct drawdown of up to $2.5 billion in DOD defense articles and services
  • Delegate authority for military education and training assistance to Ukraine
  • Delegate authority to make determinations required under section 506(a)(1)
  • Authorize and direct publication of memorandum in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Secretary of State authorized to direct drawdowns and make determinations

Near term (90d)

  • Potential execution of defense article and service drawdowns for Ukraine

Long term

  • Continued U.S. military assistance to Ukraine contingent on remaining delegated authority and funds

Risks & tensions

  • Large delegated amount ($2.5B) without explicit expiration date creates potential for extended commitment
  • Delegation of presidential drawdown authority to cabinet secretary rather than presidential exercise may reduce direct accountability
  • Vague whether this is additive to or replaces prior Ukraine assistance delegations
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 · Executive Orders