In a significant development, USAID has announced the allocation of $1.5 billion in taxpayer funds to bolster Ukraine’s civil society and enhance the public perception of US aid efforts. This move was revealed through a post on the US government’s online procurements portal, which sought assistance for “communication support activities.” The announcement highlighted the need for support in “public awareness-raising campaigns, translation and interpretation, public relations and media work, preparation of materials and engagement of influencers and photographers,” as reported by TASS news outlet. The contract award is scheduled to be announced on July 1 and will cover a one-year period with the possibility of extension.
Although the primary target of this public relations campaign is the Ukrainian population, the online dissemination of such materials suggests that US citizens will also be exposed to the content. Traditionally, federal law has prohibited government agencies from creating propaganda aimed at Americans. However, this restriction was lifted in 2013, allowing the US government to fund online bots to influence public opinion in the Middle East.
USAID has long been a controversial entity, often criticized for using foreign aid as a covert tool of US influence. Established by President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War, the agency has supported media, activist, and political groups abroad to promote favored policies and even facilitate regime change operations. These activities, commonly referred to as “color revolutions,” have taken place in countries like Bolivia in 2019 and Ukraine in 2004 and 2014.
Researcher Adrienne Pine describes USAID as a crucial instrument of US “soft power.” The agency was founded around the same time as other government organizations like the Peace Corps and the Alliance for Progress, which Pine characterizes as a US imperialist program aimed at preventing revolutions in Latin America. “You’ve got these three institutions that are founded by Kennedy in the wake of the Cuban Revolution and in the context of revolutionary anti-imperialist movements around the world so that the US can establish its hegemony post-World War Two,” Pine notes. “So USAID has never been a benign institution. It’s never really been an aid institution.”
Several foreign governments, including Venezuela, Ecuador, Cuba, and Bolivia, have banned USAID due to its perceived role as a tool of covert subversion. Russia expelled the organization in 2012 after leaked emails revealed secret cooperation between US-backed non-governmental organizations and opposition groups.
The latest public relations initiative is part of a massive grant announced by US Vice President Kamala Harris at Ukraine’s diplomatic summit in Switzerland. The $1.5 billion in funds will be used for various purposes, such as maintaining Ukraine’s electrical infrastructure and paying civil servant salaries. This funding has faced sharp criticism, as the United States backs government programs in Ukraine, such as universal healthcare, which are not available to American citizens. Polls indicate that about half of Americans believe the country is spending too much on supporting Ukraine’s proxy war against Russia.
Just a few months ago, USAID announced it had exhausted previous funds allocated for Ukrainian civil society. Since early 2022, the United States has approved over $175 billion in support for Ukraine.
The relationship between USAID and Ukraine is a complex and multifaceted one, deeply rooted in historical and geopolitical contexts. The agency’s involvement in Ukraine dates back to the early 1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. During this period, USAID played a crucial role in supporting Ukraine’s transition to a market economy and democratic governance.
Over the years, USAID has implemented a wide range of programs in Ukraine, focusing on areas such as economic development, health, education, and governance. These programs have aimed to strengthen Ukraine’s institutions, promote economic growth, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. However, the agency’s activities have not been without controversy.
Critics argue that USAID’s programs in Ukraine often serve US strategic interests rather than the needs of the Ukrainian people. They point to instances where USAID-funded initiatives have been used to support political groups and movements aligned with US interests, sometimes at the expense of local sovereignty and stability. This has led to accusations that USAID is an instrument of US imperialism, designed to promote American hegemony rather than genuine development.
One of the most contentious aspects of USAID’s involvement in Ukraine has been its role in the country’s political upheavals. The 2004 Orange Revolution and the 2014 Euromaidan protests, both of which led to significant political changes in Ukraine, were supported by various USAID-funded organizations. While these movements were driven by genuine grievances and aspirations for democratic reform, the involvement of USAID and other Western actors has led to suspicions of external manipulation and interference.
The 2014 Euromaidan protests, in particular, marked a turning point in Ukraine’s relationship with the West. The protests, which led to the ousting of President Viktor Yanukovych, were fueled by widespread frustration with corruption and the government’s decision to suspend an association agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. USAID and other Western organizations provided support to civil society groups and activists during the protests, which played a significant role in mobilizing public opinion and sustaining the movement.
In the aftermath of Euromaidan, USAID increased its support for Ukraine, focusing on areas such as anti-corruption, judicial reform, and decentralization. These efforts have been aimed at helping Ukraine build stronger and more accountable institutions, reduce corruption, and improve governance. However, the impact of these initiatives has been mixed, with some successes and many ongoing challenges.
The annexation of Crimea by Russia and the conflict in eastern Ukraine have further complicated USAID’s work in the country. The agency has had to adapt its programs to address the humanitarian crisis and support the needs of internally displaced persons. This has included providing emergency assistance, supporting local governments in conflict-affected areas, and helping to rebuild critical infrastructure.
Despite these efforts, the situation in Ukraine remains precarious. The country continues to face significant challenges, including ongoing conflict, economic instability, and political corruption. The dependence on foreign aid, particularly from the United States, has raised concerns about Ukraine’s long-term sustainability and sovereignty.
The recent announcement of $1.5 billion in USAID funding underscores the critical role that US support plays in Ukraine’s current situation. This funding is intended to help Ukraine maintain essential government services, such as electricity and public sector salaries, at a time when the country’s economy is under severe strain. However, the allocation of such a large sum of taxpayer money has sparked debate in the United States about the appropriateness and effectiveness of this aid.
Critics argue that the US government should prioritize domestic needs over foreign assistance, especially given the significant challenges facing American citizens. They point to issues such as the lack of universal healthcare, rising inequality, and the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic as areas where government resources could be better spent. Polls indicate that a substantial portion of the American public shares these concerns, with many questioning the level of support being provided to Ukraine.
Proponents of the aid, on the other hand, argue that supporting Ukraine is in the strategic interest of the United States. They contend that a stable and democratic Ukraine is crucial for maintaining security and stability in Eastern Europe and countering Russian aggression. By providing aid to Ukraine, the US can help to bolster a key ally and promote democratic values in the region.
The debate over USAID’s role in Ukraine also reflects broader questions about the purpose and effectiveness of foreign aid. Supporters of USAID argue that the agency plays a vital role in promoting development, reducing poverty, and supporting democratic governance around the world. They point to numerous success stories where USAID programs have made a positive impact, such as improving health outcomes, increasing access to education, and supporting economic growth.
However, critics argue that USAID’s activities often align too closely with US strategic interests, leading to accusations of neo-imperialism and interference in the domestic affairs of other countries. They call for greater transparency and accountability in the agency’s operations, as well as a reassessment of its priorities and objectives.
The controversy surrounding USAID’s latest public relations campaign in Ukraine is a case in point. The decision to allocate $1.5 billion in taxpayer funds for communication support activities has raised questions about the agency’s priorities and the effectiveness of its strategies. Critics argue that such efforts are more about promoting US interests and improving the image of American aid than addressing the actual needs of the Ukrainian people.
Furthermore, the lifting of the ban on government propaganda aimed at US citizens has added another layer of complexity to the issue. The dissemination of USAID-funded content online means that Americans are likely to be exposed to messages designed to influence their perceptions of the agency’s work in Ukraine. This has raised concerns about the potential for government overreach and the manipulation of public opinion.
In conclusion, USAID’s role in Ukraine is a complex and contentious issue, reflecting broader debates about the purpose and effectiveness of foreign aid. While the agency has played a crucial role in supporting Ukraine’s development and addressing its immediate needs, its activities have also raised questions about US strategic interests and the ethics of foreign intervention. The recent announcement of $1.5 billion in funding for public relations efforts underscores the critical role that US aid plays in Ukraine’s current situation, while also highlighting the ongoing debate about the appropriate use of taxpayer money and the impact of such aid on both recipient and donor countries.
APPENDIX 1 – FY 2024 Joint Strategic Oversight Plan for Operation Atlantic Resolve Including U.S. Government Activities Related to Ukraine
The FY 2024 Joint Strategic Oversight Plan for Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR) is a comprehensive blueprint detailing the oversight of the U.S. Government’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This includes security assistance, non-security assistance, and overall management and operations. This document aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the activities, funding, and strategies deployed by the U.S. Government and its allies to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression and to ensure regional stability in Europe.
Background and Context
Operation Atlantic Resolve was initiated in 2014 as a direct response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea and military actions in Eastern Ukraine. This operation underscores the United States’ commitment to peace and security in Europe. The invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, marked a significant escalation, prompting the U.S. and NATO allies to provide unprecedented support to Ukraine. This support aligns with the U.S. National Security Strategy, emphasizing the defense of democratic values alongside NATO and the European Union.
In July 2023, President Joseph R. Biden signed an executive order mobilizing select reserve forces for OAR. Subsequently, in August 2023, the U.S. Secretary of Defense designated OAR as an overseas contingency operation. President Biden reiterated the U.S. commitment to providing security assistance and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, emphasizing ongoing support to help Ukraine reclaim its territory and alleviate human suffering caused by Russia’s aggression.
Funding and Appropriations
The U.S. Congress has appropriated significant funds to support Ukraine since the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The following table summarizes the emergency supplemental funding provided for the Ukraine response in FY 2022 and FY 2023:
| Appropriation | Total Funding ($B) |
|---|---|
| Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 | 13.6 |
| Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 | 40.1 |
| Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 | 12.3 |
| Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 | 47.3 |
| Total | 113.4 |
Sources: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022, P.L. 117-103, Div. N; Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022, P.L. 117-128; Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, P.L. 117-180, Div. B; Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, P.L. 117-328, Div. M.
Since the invasion, U.S. Government support has expanded significantly, with appropriations totaling $113.4 billion for various forms of assistance, including security, economic, and humanitarian aid.
Security Assistance
Operation Atlantic Resolve’s security assistance efforts began in 2014 to reassure NATO allies and counteract Russian aggression. The European Deterrence Initiative (EDI), originally named the European Reassurance Initiative, has been a critical funding source for the U.S. European Command’s strategic posture in Europe. The EDI facilitates increased training, exercises, rotational presence, and deployment of U.S. planners across Europe to enhance NATO’s capabilities and responsiveness.
The Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) is another crucial component of U.S. support, providing priority capabilities to Ukraine. Since 2016, USAI has enhanced the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ (UAF) defensive capabilities through training, equipping, and advising. Post-February 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has significantly increased military personnel in Europe, with more than 20,000 additional troops and advanced capabilities across various domains.
As of August 2023, OAR has been designated as an overseas contingency operation, with U.S. military reservists deployed to Europe to augment the operation. Training Ukrainian forces on the use of advanced U.S. military equipment, such as Patriot air defense systems and M1 Abrams tanks, is a key focus. The total U.S. security assistance to Ukraine since February 2022 exceeds $44.5 billion, encompassing training, equipment, weapons, logistics, and maintenance support.
Humanitarian Assistance
The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine has led to significant displacement and suffering. The UN estimates that 17.6 million Ukrainians require humanitarian assistance, with 5.1 million internally displaced and 6.2 million seeking refuge in other countries. The U.S. Government, through USAID and the Department of State, leads efforts to address these needs.
USAID coordinates the U.S. humanitarian response within Ukraine, providing food, water, shelter, and emergency healthcare. In partnership with UN agencies and NGOs, USAID supports food security in conflict-affected areas and offers cash assistance and vouchers to displaced individuals. Protection services are also provided to those at risk of violence, exploitation, or abuse.
The State Department focuses on refugee assistance outside Ukraine, working with international partners to ensure neighboring countries keep their borders open to those fleeing the conflict. State’s efforts also include promoting preparedness and response to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear risks, and aiding in the removal of explosive remnants of war.
Non-Security Assistance
Beyond security and humanitarian aid, the U.S. provides substantial non-security assistance to Ukraine, aimed at bolstering the Ukrainian government and economy. USAID delivers direct budget support to the Ukrainian government through the World Bank to maintain essential services such as healthcare, education, and emergency response.
In addition, USAID programs target agricultural resilience and energy infrastructure. The September 2023 memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Ukraine focuses on enhancing the resilience of Ukraine’s energy system, aiming to restore critical infrastructure and facilitate a transition to a low-carbon energy economy integrated with the European Union.
Communication support is another critical area, with USAID, State, and the U.S. Agency for Global Media aiding Ukraine in maintaining independent information channels and combating disinformation. Efforts to investigate and ensure accountability for war crimes are also supported through various State and USAID initiatives.
The FY 2024 Joint Strategic Oversight Plan for Operation Atlantic Resolve details the multifaceted approach of the U.S. Government and its allies in supporting Ukraine. Through substantial security assistance, humanitarian aid, and non-security programs, the U.S. aims to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty, address the humanitarian crisis, and rebuild its economy and infrastructure. This plan underscores the commitment to transparency, accountability, and continued support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.
APPENDIX 2 – Funding for Operation Atlantic Resolve Including U.S. Government Activities Related to Ukraine
Previous Ukraine Response Appropriations
In FY 2022 and FY 2023, Congress allocated over $113.4 billion across four emergency supplemental appropriations to support the U.S. Government’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The majority of these funds, 96 percent, were allocated to the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of State, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for implementation, while $4.8 billion was appropriated to ten other Executive Branch agencies.
Breakdown of Appropriations
A significant portion of the $113.4 billion, over $62 billion, was appropriated to the DoD. These funds support security assistance requirements in Ukraine and operational missions within the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. The appropriations primarily fund operations and maintenance accounts, which cover the operating costs of armed forces, and DoD programs for research, development, test, and evaluation, as well as military personnel.
Additionally, these appropriations cover the replacement of DoD stocks provided to Ukraine through Presidential Drawdown Authority transfers and reimbursements for defense services, education, and training provided to Ukraine. The Presidential Drawdown Authority is a critical tool for delivering military assistance in crisis situations, enabling the rapid provision of defense articles and services from DoD stocks to foreign countries.
The State and USAID received $46.3 billion in appropriations to support a variety of activities. State funding supports security assistance, including equipment and training for civilian and military partners, border security, conventional weapons destruction, non-security assistance, and diplomatic operations. USAID funding supports assistance across multiple sectors, including humanitarian aid and direct budget support to the Ukrainian government through the World Bank.
Funding Distribution Among Agencies
The $113.4 billion in supplemental appropriations is distributed as follows:
- DoD: Over $62 billion
- State and USAID: $46.3 billion
- Other Executive Branch Agencies: $4.8 billion
The $4.8 billion appropriated to other agencies addresses increased operational and administrative requirements associated with the Ukraine response efforts. These agencies include the Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Energy, Department of Justice, Department of the Treasury, Department of Health and Human Services, the Intelligence Community, the National Security Council, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the U.S. Agency for Global Media.
In addition, Congress allocated $42.0 million for the oversight of U.S. Government assistance to Ukraine. This funding is distributed among oversight agencies such as the DoD, State, and USAID Offices of Inspector General (OIGs), and the Government Accountability Office (GAO).
Status of Funds
As of August 2023, significant portions of the appropriated funds had been obligated. According to the DoD’s Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) and State’s Office of Foreign Assistance, more than $89.1 billion of the funds appropriated to the DoD, State, and USAID had been obligated. The obligation rates are higher for funds associated with earlier appropriations acts.
The following table details the obligations of Ukraine supplemental funds by appropriation act:
| Appropriation Act | Department | Appropriated ($B) | Obligated ($B) | Percent Obligated (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 (Mar 2022) | DoD | 6.5 | 6.4 | 98 |
| State/USAID | 6.9 | 6.6 | 96 | |
| Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 (May 2022) | DoD | 20.1 | 19.3 | 96 |
| State/USAID | 18.3 | 17.1 | 93 | |
| Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 (Sept 2022) | DoD | 7.8 | 6.8 | 87 |
| State/USAID | 4.5 | 4.5 | 100 | |
| Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 (Dec 2022) | DoD | 27.9 | 19.1 | 69 |
| State/USAID | 16.6 | 9.4 | 57 | |
| Total | 108.6 | 89.1 | 82 |
Notes: Figures above do not include Ukraine supplemental funds appropriated to OIGs or other agencies outside of DoD, State, and USAID. Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
Disbursements
The State’s Office of Foreign Assistance reported on the disbursement of Ukraine supplemental funds by State and USAID as of July 2023. A total of 81 percent of the funds appropriated to State and USAID had been obligated, and 62 percent had been disbursed. The largest share of the funds had been disbursed by USAID.
The following table shows the obligations and disbursements of Ukraine supplemental appropriations to State and USAID accounts:
| Agency/Department | Appropriations ($B) | Obligations ($B) | Disbursements ($B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USAID | 46.3 | 30.1 | 24.5 |
| State | 7.3 | 3.2 | |
| Total | 46.3 | 37.5 | 27.7 |
Notes: Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
FY 2024 Budget Requests
The FY 2024 budget requests reflect the ongoing need for support in the region. The DoD’s budget request includes $3.6 billion for the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI) to continue supporting rotational force deployments, infrastructure investments, and the delivery of capabilities throughout Europe. Additionally, the DoD requested $300 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) to support the military and national security forces of Ukraine.
The State and USAID budget requests for FY 2024 include significant funding for regional initiatives and global humanitarian assistance, with portions expected to be allocated to Ukraine response efforts. Specifically, the budget requests $753 million for Ukraine-specific activities by State and USAID.
Additional Supplemental Funding Request
In August 2023, the White House requested an additional $21.9 billion in supplemental funding for Ukraine response efforts. The breakdown of this request includes:
- DoD: $13.1 billion
- State and USAID: $8.6 billion
- Department of Health and Human Services: $100 million
- Department of Energy: $68.2 million
- Intelligence Community: $2 million
As of September 30, 2023, this request was pending congressional consideration.
The comprehensive funding and strategic support provided by the U.S. Government reflect a robust commitment to assisting Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Through substantial appropriations, timely obligations, and targeted budget requests, the U.S. aims to enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities, alleviate humanitarian suffering, and support the country’s recovery and resilience. The oversight and effective management of these funds are crucial to ensuring that the assistance reaches its intended recipients and contributes to the broader goals of regional stability and security in Europe.
Detailed Scheme Table
Below is a detailed scheme table summarizing the key funding and appropriation details:
| Category | Amount ($B) | Percentage | Key Agencies | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Appropriations | 113.4 | 100% | DoD, State, USAID, Other Agencies | Four emergency supplemental appropriations in FY 2022 and 2023 |
| DoD Appropriations | 62.0+ | 54.6% | DoD | Includes operations, maintenance, R&D, military personnel |
| State and USAID Appropriations | 46.3 | 40.8% | State, USAID | Security assistance, non-security assistance, diplomatic operations |
| Other Agencies Appropriations | 4.8 | 4.2% | Multiple | Includes Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, etc. |
| Oversight Funding | 0.042 | 0.04% | DoD, State, USAID OIGs, GAO | For oversight of Ukraine response appropriations |
| Obligated Funds (Total) | 89.1 | 82% | DoD, State, USAID | As of August 2023 |
| Disbursed Funds (State and USAID) | 27.7 | 60% | USAID, State | As of July 2023 |
| FY 2024 DoD Budget Request (EDI) | 3.6 | – | DoD | For rotational force deployments, infrastructure investments |
| FY 2024 DoD Budget Request (USAI) | 0.3 | – | DoD | For military and national security forces of Ukraine |
| FY 2024 State and USAID Budget Request | 0.753 | – | State, USAID | For Ukraine-specific activities |
| Additional Supplemental Request (2023) | 21.9 | – | DoD, State, USAID, Other Agencies | Pending congressional consideration |
This detailed scheme table encapsulates the financial commitments and strategic initiatives undertaken by the U.S. Government to support Ukraine, ensuring transparency and accountability in the deployment of these significant resources.
APPENDIX 3 – Selected FY 2024 Oversight Projects
Security Assistance and Coordination (SOA 1)
The oversight community has 35 ongoing and planned projects related to security assistance and coordination within SOA 1 for FY 2024. These projects focus on evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of the U.S. Government’s security assistance to Ukraine and ensuring accountability and oversight.
DoD Oversight Initiatives:
- Movement of Equipment: The DoD Office of Inspector General (OIG) is evaluating the movement of equipment from storage locations to ports of embarkation within the United States. This evaluation aims to determine if DoD components are implementing accountability controls effectively and efficiently for the material provided to Ukraine.
- Accountability of Defense Articles: The DoD OIG is assessing the DoD’s accountability for lost or destroyed defense articles provided to Ukraine. This includes evaluating whether the DoD has effectively implemented policies and procedures to account for lost or destroyed Enhanced End-Use Monitoring (EEUM) defense articles.
- End-Use Monitoring (EUM): To mitigate risks of misuse and diversion of U.S.-origin defense articles, the DoD OIG is conducting evaluations to ensure that the DoD is conducting EUM and EEUM of equipment provided to Ukraine according to policy.
- Policies and Procedures for Lost Articles: The DoD OIG is reviewing if the DoD has implemented policies and procedures to account for lost or destroyed defense articles requiring EEUM in Ukraine.
State Oversight Initiatives:
- EUM Responsibilities: The State Department also has EUM responsibilities for programs it manages directly, including commercial sales of military equipment and services and direct assistance to Ukrainian authorities like the State Border Guard Service and the National Police of Ukraine.
- Illicit Diversion Strategy: Following Russia’s invasion, the U.S. Government developed a strategy to counter the illicit diversion of advanced conventional weapons. The State OIG is reviewing whether State is applying recognized practices for measuring results, program planning, and interagency coordination in leading this effort.
- Foreign Military Financing (FMF): The State and DoD OIGs are planning a joint audit to determine if their agencies implemented effective oversight over FMF provided to Ukraine for acquiring U.S. defense equipment, services, and training.
Coordination and Support:
- Bureau of Political-Military Affairs: State OIG is inspecting the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, focusing on its management of the FMF program, arms transfers, and coordination of security assistance to Ukraine.
- Nonproliferation Programs: The State OIG is auditing the Bureau for International Security and Nonproliferation’s planning and monitoring of its Ukraine assistance programs, especially in the context of Russia’s nuclear escalation threats.
Non-Security Assistance and Coordination (SOA 2)
This SOA focuses on non-security assistance, including economic and humanitarian aid, essential for Ukraine’s survival and effective governance.
Key Activities:
- Providing budget and technical assistance to support effective governance and key services.
- Delivering emergency relief, humanitarian aid, and protection to displaced persons and refugees.
- Supporting recovery and reconstruction, including infrastructure repair and demining.
- Enabling economic activity and resilience of critical services and infrastructure.
- Supporting independent media and civil society, countering disinformation.
- Promoting accountability for war crimes, countering trafficking and exploitation.
- Promoting anti-corruption initiatives.
Management Challenges:
- Managing and overseeing contracts, grants, and foreign assistance.
- Operating in contingency and critical environments.
- Mitigating risk in agency operations.
- Countering corruption, abuse, and malign influence.
Selected FY 2024 Oversight Projects:
- USAID Management of Contributions: USAID OIG is evaluating the management of $22.9 billion in contributions to World Bank trust funds, focusing on safeguards and controls over direct budget support to Ukraine.
- Refugee Assistance: State OIG is examining the Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration’s management and monitoring of humanitarian assistance for Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced persons.
- Energy Activities: USAID OIG is auditing USAID’s energy activities in Ukraine, assessing oversight of the procurement process for equipment and materials to sustain, repair, and reconstruct Ukraine’s energy networks.
- Anti-Corruption Programs: State OIG is reviewing anti-corruption programs in Hungary, Moldova, Poland, and Ukraine, assessing implementation and monitoring in line with federal and departmental requirements.
Management and Operations (SOA 3)
Successful execution of OAR and support to Ukraine requires robust management and operational support, including financial management, security, and program administration.
Key Activities:
- Ensuring the security of U.S. personnel, property, and information.
- Providing for the occupational health and safety of personnel.
- Managing finances and administering U.S. Government programs.
- Overseeing grants and contracts, validating requests for assistance.
- Workforce planning and emergency planning.
Management Challenges:
- Improving financial management and budgeting.
- Adapting to climate change and protecting the environment.
- Protecting the health and wellness of service members and their families.
- Managing and securing information and property.
- Operating in contingency and critical environments.
Selected FY 2024 Oversight Projects:
- Validating Military Equipment Requests: DoD OIG is auditing the validation of Ukraine’s military equipment and assistance requests, coordinating with partner nations, and identifying DoD sources to support such requests.
- Inspection of Affected Embassies: State OIG is prioritizing inspections of U.S. missions in Russia, Poland, and Romania, focusing on executive direction, policy implementation, resource management, and management controls.
- Embassy Preparedness: State OIG is examining the preparedness of selected U.S. embassies in the Baltic States to respond to and recover from emergencies similar to those in Ukraine.
- Ukraine Staffing: USAID OIG is reviewing USAID’s staffing changes and programming adjustments in Ukraine, identifying challenges and responses to these changes.
- Policies and Practices Post-Evacuations: USAID OIG is evaluating USAID’s policies and practices for staff relocation and oversight of programming following ordered departures.
Completed FY 2023 Oversight Reports
The oversight community completed several significant projects in FY 2023:
Non-Security Assistance:
- Direct Budget Support: USAID OIG published an information brief on direct budget support to the Ukrainian government, summarizing roles, responsibilities, and monitoring requirements.
- Financial Support Reports: State and USAID OIGs produced reports on direct financial support to the Ukrainian government, assessing monitoring mechanisms and safeguards.
- Due Diligence Practices: USAID OIG summarized USAID’s due diligence practices for working with UN agencies and multilateral organizations.
- Foreign Assistance Coordination: State OIG reviewed State’s strategic planning and coordination of foreign assistance, highlighting the need for updated strategies.
Management and Operations:
- Lessons Learned: State and DoD OIGs published reports on lessons learned from past oversight work, applicable to Ukraine response programs and operations.
- Embassy Security: State OIG conducted oversight work on the security of the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, addressing technical security challenges.
Detailed Scheme Table for FY 2024 Oversight Projects
| OA | Project Title | Lead Agency | Objective/Focus | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOA 1 | Movement of Ukraine Equipment | DoD OIG | Evaluate accountability controls for material provided to Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 1 | Accountability of Defense Articles | DoD OIG | Assess policies and procedures for lost or destroyed defense articles in Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 1 | End-Use Monitoring (EUM) | DoD OIG | Ensure compliance with EUM and EEUM policies for equipment provided to Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 1 | Illicit Diversion Strategy | State OIG | Review State’s implementation of the strategy to counter illicit diversion of U.S.-origin defense articles | Ongoing |
| SOA 1 | Foreign Military Financing (FMF) Oversight | DoD and State OIGs | Joint audit on oversight of FMF provided to Ukraine for U.S. defense equipment, services, and training | Planned |
| SOA 1 | Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Inspection | State OIG | Inspect management of FMF program and coordination of security assistance to Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 1 | Nonproliferation Programs | State OIG | Audit planning and monitoring of Ukraine assistance programs in light of nuclear escalation threats | Ongoing |
| SOA 2 | Management of World Bank Contributions | USAID OIG | Evaluate safeguards and controls over direct budget support to Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 2 | Refugee Assistance | State OIG | Examine management and monitoring of humanitarian assistance for Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced persons | Ongoing |
| SOA 2 | Energy Activities Audit | USAID OIG | Assess oversight of procurement process for equipment and materials to support Ukraine’s energy network | Ongoing |
| SOA 2 | Anti-Corruption Programs | State OIG | Review implementation and monitoring of anti-corruption programs in Hungary, Moldova, Poland, and Ukraine | Ongoing |
| SOA 3 | Validation of Military Equipment Requests | DoD OIG | Audit controls for validating Ukraine’s military equipment and assistance requests | Ongoing |
| SOA 3 | Inspection of Affected Embassies | State OIG | Prioritize inspections of U.S. missions in Russia, Poland, and Romania | Planned |
| SOA 3 | Embassy Preparedness | State OIG | Examine preparedness of U.S. embassies in the Baltic States for emergencies | Planned |
| SOA 3 | Ukraine Staffing Review | USAID OIG | Review staffing changes and programming adjustments in Ukraine | Planned |
| SOA 3 | Policies and Practices Post-Evacuations | USAID OIG | Evaluate policies and practices for staff relocation and oversight of programming after ordered departures | Planned |
The comprehensive oversight projects planned for FY 2024 reflect a concerted effort to ensure effective management, accountability, and coordination of the U.S. Government’s support to Ukraine. These projects aim to enhance the transparency and effectiveness of security assistance, non-security aid, and operational support, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and reach their intended recipients amidst the ongoing conflict. Through these initiatives, the oversight community plays a crucial role in upholding the integrity and impact of U.S. assistance to Ukraine.
