Pentagon to hand Ukraine aid mission to European allies
It has become known why the Pentagon is stepping back from the Ukraine assistance mission (photo: Getty Images)
The US Department of Defense has ordered its European Command to reorganize the Security Assistance Group–Ukraine (SAG-U), according to the US European Command.
In practice, this means that the Pentagon has ordered that the leadership of the mission be transferred to its European allies.
The US command assured that this decision will in no way affect support for Ukraine.
It also became known that the decision was made directly by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The United States emphasized that the changes confirm Europe's leadership role in supporting Ukraine's defense over the past year.
In addition, the US European Command said the decision will free up resources for other global priorities.
On July 31, Politico reported that the US Department of Defense was stepping down from leading the Security Assistance Group–Ukraine, which is based in Germany.
In practice, this means that the United States will no longer take part in shaping the future structure of the Ukrainian military.
What is known about the Security Assistance Group–Ukraine
The Security Assistance Group–Ukraine (SAG-U) was established on November 4, 2022.
It is currently based in Wiesbaden, Germany, and coordinates weapons deliveries, training for Ukrainian troops, and logistical support.
Over three and a half years of operation, more than $2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine has been distributed through SAG-U.
Until now, the mission had been led by US Lieutenant General Guillaume Beaurpere.
Earlier, the United States made a pessimistic statement regarding Patriot licenses for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
It was also reported that the Pentagon acknowledged that it is lagging behind Ukraine in the field of drones.
