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U.S. Draws Down Key Military Aid Program for NATO’s Eastern Flank to Zero

The shift places more of the cost of equipping eastern allies on Europe.

Overview

  • Estonia and Lithuania said the Pentagon notified them that funding for the 333 program, which buys U.S.-made equipment, will be reduced to zero.
  • Lithuania reported the expiring program accounted for between one-third and 80% of its U.S. military assistance over the years, highlighting a major shortfall.
  • White House sources told AFP the move was coordinated with European governments and follows a Trump decree on reallocating foreign aid, though details remain limited.
  • Senator Jeanne Shaheen and other critics warned the cut could weaken allied readiness and increase risks for U.S. forces, according to Reuters.
  • Officials said U.S. troop levels in the region will be maintained through other budget lines, while media reports indicate the assistance budget may not be extended after September 2026.