Bipartisan Senators Press Hegseth to Release $600 Million Ukraine Aid After Missing May 15 Deadline
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · May 22
Bipartisan Senators Press Hegseth to Release $600 Million Ukraine Aid After Missing May 15 Deadline
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · May 22
Summary
$600 million in delayed security funding for Ukraine and eastern European allies is at the center of a bipartisan Senate letter demanding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disburse the money.
The senators say the Pentagon missed a promised May 15 deadline for a spending plan, despite Hegseth telling lawmakers more than three weeks ago that the $400 million for Ukraine had been released.
The package also includes $200 million for defense programs in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, and lawmakers warned further delays could weaken deterrence as troop withdrawals from the region are reportedly being considered.
Republican frustration has widened as the Trump administration pulls back from Ukraine and Europe, with some GOP senators also criticizing Hegseth's firing of Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George.
Congressional pressure is building beyond the Senate letter: a House-backed proposal pairing new Russia sanctions with $1 billion in military aid is unlikely to pass but underscores renewed support for Ukraine.
Is America's military overstretch in the Middle East handing Russia a strategic advantage in Europe?
Is the Pentagon ignoring Ukraine's drone warfare lessons at its own peril?
As America pulls back, can a newly armed Europe stand alone against a resurgent Russia?
U.S. Security Aid to Ukraine and Europe Delayed: Congressional Backlash, Policy Shifts, and the Rise of European Defense Autonomy (2025–2026)
Overview
As of May 23, 2026, crucial U.S. security aid to Ukraine and the Baltic states remains delayed, sparking bipartisan frustration in Congress. Lawmakers from both parties see this inaction as harmful to U.S. foreign policy and alliances, raising deep concerns about the administration’s commitment to European partners and regional stability. In response, a Democratic-backed House initiative proposes new sanctions on Russia and $1 billion in military aid for Ukraine, reflecting a strong push to support Ukraine’s defense. This situation highlights Congress’s urgent desire to provide tangible help, despite ongoing challenges and delays.