Trump may approve $500-billion lend-lease for Ukraine

Former US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and lobbyist David Urban have suggested that if Donald Trump is re-elected as President, he may introduce a $500 billion lend-lease programme for Ukraine.

This prediction outlines significant potential shifts in US foreign policy and defence strategy under a future Trump administration, Caliber.Az reports, citing American media.

The proposed lend-lease programme would allow Ukraine to access substantial funds from the United States to purchase American weapons, potentially lifting all restrictions on the types and modifications of weapons supplied to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Pompeo and Urban argue that this approach would bolster Ukraine's defence capabilities while fostering growth in the US defence industry. They also suggest that this financial mechanism could alleviate the financial burden on American taxpayers.

In addition to the lend-lease programme, the report outlines other possible policies Trump might pursue, including:

1. Developing US Energy Potential: Enhancing domestic energy production to increase energy independence.
2. Re-establishing Ties with Key Middle Eastern Allies: Strengthening relationships with Saudi Arabia and Israel to counterbalance Iranian influence in the region.
3. Extending Sanctions Against Russia: Continuing and potentially expanding sanctions to maintain pressure on Russia.
4. Increasing NATO Member States' Military Spending: Advocating for NATO members to boost their defence budgets to at least 3 per cent of their GDP.

This vision contrasts with the current state of US support for Ukraine. In May 2022, President Joe Biden signed a lend-lease law intended to facilitate military aid to Ukraine, reminiscent of the World War II-era program that provided military support to Allied nations. However, this law was never activated and expired on September 30, 2023.