National security adviser Jake Sullivan faced criticism from GOP lawmakers after it was revealed that the Pentagon made a $3 billion accounting error. In a letter sent to Sullivan, Republican lawmakers demanded more precise numbers regarding aid to Ukraine, citing a $31.1 billion discrepancy between Sullivan’s statement and data from the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Sen. JD Vance, along with Reps. Chip Roy and Matt Gaetz, expressed concerns about the conflicting figures during a White House briefing last week. According to Sullivan, the Biden administration had sent around $79.9 billion in aid to Ukraine since the war started in February 2022. However, the OMB provided Vance’s office with a chart showing at least $101 billion spent, with plans for additional spending.
The group of lawmakers, who have been vocal critics of aid to Ukraine, called on Sullivan to clarify the total budgetary resources allocated for the war in Ukraine and other countries affected by the situation. They also sought clarification on funding sources, potential reprogrammings, and additional funds found in the Pentagon’s coffers.
Lawmakers also highlighted a news report stating that even in the event of a government shutdown, funding for weapon shipments to Ukraine from the Department of Defense’s stockpiles would continue, with $6.2 billion in aid available. This amount was not included in the OMB spreadsheet, further complicating the total figure of assistance provided.
Furthermore, the letter reminded the administration of a previous statement indicating that previous supplemental appropriations for direct military aid, economic and humanitarian assistance, and other support had already been committed. The lawmakers questioned the availability of additional funds for the war in Ukraine.
This latest development follows an earlier revelation in May, where the Pentagon overvalued the amount of military equipment sent to Ukraine by an estimated $3 billion. Since then, Republican lawmakers have been calling for increased oversight on funds sent to the eastern European country.
Digital has reached out to Sullivan for comment on the matter.
In conclusion, Republican lawmakers are demanding clarification on the $31.1 billion discrepancy in US aid to Ukraine. They have raised concerns about conflicting figures provided by national security adviser Jake Sullivan and the White House Office of Management and Budget. The lawmakers are seeking transparency and clear information regarding funding sources and the total amount of assistance provided.
