ExecutiveOrdersEO
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 $375 million in Defense Department defense articles, services, and military education/training to provide assistance to Ukraine under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

Federal Register Open PDF 88 FR 36211

Impact dates

  1. Publication of memorandum in Federal Register

Key directives

  • Delegate to Secretary of State authority under section 506(a)(1) of FAA to direct drawdown of up to $375 million in DoD defense articles and services and military education/training
  • Provide assistance to Ukraine
  • Make determinations required under section 506(a)(1)
  • Publish memorandum in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Authority to direct drawdown of up to $375 million in defense articles/services and military education/training becomes available

Near term (90d)

  • Potential execution of drawdown and delivery of assistance to Ukraine
  • Publication of memorandum in Federal Register

Long term

  • Continued U.S. security assistance to Ukraine under delegated authority framework

Risks & tensions

  • Delegation shifts accountability from President to Secretary of State for high-value military transfer decisions
  • Specific $375 million cap creates ceiling that may require additional presidential action if needs exceed amount
  • Text does not specify end date for delegated authority, leaving duration uncertain
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 · Executive Orders