ExecutiveOrdersEO
MemoMemorandumBiden · D Quiet signal

Presidential Memorandum

Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(3) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

President Biden delegates authority to the Secretary of State to direct the drawdown of up to $567 million in DOD defense articles, services, and military education/training to provide assistance to Taiwan. This is a statutory delegation under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

Federal Register Open PDF 89 FR 83765

Impact dates

  1. Federal Register publication

Key directives

  • Delegate to Secretary of State authority under section 506(a)(3) of FAA to direct drawdown of up to $567 million in DOD defense articles, services, and military education/training for Taiwan
  • Publish this memorandum in the Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Secretary of State authorized to direct drawdown of defense articles and services

Near term (90d)

  • Potential execution of defense article transfers and military education/training provisions

Long term

  • Sustained U.S.-Taiwan security cooperation under delegated authority

Risks & tensions

  • Potential escalation with China regarding Taiwan security assistance
  • Unclear whether $567 million represents new funding or cumulative ceiling; text specifies ceiling amount
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(3) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 · Executive Orders