A new bipartisan bill aimed at reducing bureaucratic procedures and accelerating the delivery of critical ammunition to Ukraine has been introduced in Washington. The initiative, titled the "Accelerating European Investments in Ukraine's Defense Act," seeks to ensure more stable and timely deliveries of large batches of weaponry.

Bipartisan Initiative by Kaine and Cornyn

The bill was authored by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine from Virginia and Republican Senator John Cornyn from Texas. According to the authors, the document aims to stimulate investments by European allies in supporting Ukraine while simultaneously expanding the capabilities of the US defense industry.

Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations, noted that Ukrainians have demonstrated incredible resilience on the battlefield. He emphasized that the new mechanism will allow for more effective support of Kyiv through close cooperation with allies.

Republican Senator John Cornyn highlighted that the current procedure for coordinating arms exports is too lengthy, leading to delays in deliveries critical for Ukrainian troops. In his words, the new bill, based on common sense, should eliminate bureaucratic obstacles.

Changes to the Arms Export Control Act

The essence of the proposal lies in amending the US Arms Export Control Act (AECA). The bill provides for the introduction of a mechanism for the pre-approval of the purchase and transfer of certain types of ammunition to Ukraine by NATO countries and other partners. This mechanism could remain in effect until December 31, 2030, with the possibility of extension until 2035.

According to the text of the document, pre-approval applies to the following categories of weaponry:

  • 155mm Excalibur artillery shells with extended range;
  • Ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS);
  • Ammunition for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS).

At the same time, the document maintains existing requirements for end-use controls on weaponry. Ukraine is obligated to guarantee in writing that it will not transfer these munitions to third parties without US consent.

Context of Support at the NATO Summit

The introduction of the bill coincides with the intensification of efforts by NATO allies regarding long-term support for Ukraine. At the Alliance summit in Ankara, scheduled for July 7-8, it is planned to confirm the allocation of an additional €70 billion in military aid.

Furthermore, participating countries intend to declare their readiness to maintain a similar level of funding in 2027. It is expected that the issue of supporting Ukraine will become one of the key points of the summit's final declaration.