Donald Trump Claims $350 Billion Sent to Ukraine, But Reports Suggest Under $100 Billion—Actual Figure May Be Even Lower

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has poured substantial financial and military aid into Kyiv’s war effort. However, the exact amount remains a topic of heated debate, with figures fluctuating based on sources, political interpretations, and accounting methods.

Recently, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that the U.S. has sent $350 billion to Ukraine—a figure far exceeding official reports from the U.S. government and independent analysts. According to the Congressional Research Service, Congress has approved approximately $175 billion in aid over three years, with around $120 billion specifically allocated for Ukraine’s defense, economic support, and humanitarian relief. This stark contrast raises questions about how war-related spending is calculated and whether political rhetoric is inflating the numbers.

A Breakdown of U.S. Assistance

Of the $120 billion directed at Ukraine, military aid accounts for $67.3 billion, covering advanced weapons, artillery, air defense systems, and logistical support. This includes Patriot missile batteries, NASAMS air-defense systems, over 10,000 Javelin anti-tank missiles, and more than 40 HIMARS rocket launchers. Additionally, the U.S. has provided 31 M1 Abrams tanks, Soviet-designed Mi-17 helicopters, and thousands of armored vehicles.

While Washington has focused on military support, another $49 billion has been allocated for Ukraine’s economy, helping to sustain government functions, pay salaries, and maintain critical infrastructure. Humanitarian aid—totaling around $3.6 billion—has been used for refugee assistance, medical supplies, and food distribution.

Despite these figures, Trump’s $350 billion claim does not align with publicly available records. A report by BBC Verify found no evidence supporting his assertion. Some experts suggest he may be referencing broader spending under Operation Atlantic Resolve, which includes bolstering U.S. military presence in Europe and replenishing stockpiles after weapons transfers to Ukraine. The Pentagon estimates total costs related to the conflict at around $182.8 billion.

The Role of Europe

While the U.S. remains the largest single donor, European nations collectively have provided more aid. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy estimates that Europe has contributed approximately $138 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian assistance. NATO allies, particularly Germany and the U.K., have ramped up their commitments, with recent pledges of air defense systems and additional weapons. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that in 2024 alone, member states contributed over 50 billion euros in security aid to Ukraine, with nearly 60% coming from Europe and Canada.

The Controversial Mineral-Resources Debate

Trump’s claim that the U.S. would “get its money back” through a mineral-rights deal has also drawn attention. Ukraine is rich in resources such as lithium, titanium, and rare earth elements—materials crucial for defense and technology industries. With an estimated $350 billion in mineral wealth under Russian occupation, the idea of leveraging these resources for financial repayment has been floated. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed economic partnerships, Trump reportedly pushed for a direct financial return, demanding up to $500 billion. Ukraine ultimately rejected such terms, leading to tensions between the two leaders.

Is the Aid Being Properly Used?

Concerns over corruption and mismanagement have fueled skepticism about continued aid. However, U.S. watchdog agencies, including the State Department, USAID, and the Pentagon, maintain oversight of how funds are spent. While some corruption issues within Ukraine’s government have been acknowledged, reports indicate that U.S. aid has been appropriately used for its intended purposes. To improve transparency, Kyiv has implemented procurement reforms in its defense sector.

What’s Next for U.S. Support?

As Trump’s influence over the Republican Party remains strong, future U.S. aid to Ukraine could be at risk. His America-first stance has fueled calls to cut funding, putting pressure on Europe to shoulder more of the burden. The U.K. recently pledged £1.6 billion in new military aid, and NATO members continue to strategize their long-term commitments.

The fate of Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression depends on continued support. While the numbers behind U.S. aid may be debated, one thing is clear—Washington’s decisions in the coming months could shift the balance of power in the conflict.