US Aid to Ukraine's True Cost Under Scrutiny Amid Calls for Clear Victory Plan

Washington D.C. – A prominent former defense official, Ezra A. Cohen, has publicly questioned the current approach to supporting Ukraine, demanding a "detailed and achievable plan" for military victory that does not "rely on raiding American's paychecks." His statement, made on November 23, 2025, reflects growing scrutiny over the financial burden and strategic effectiveness of U.S. assistance to Kyiv.

Cohen, who previously served as Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, brings a background in national security and intelligence policy to his critique. His remarks underscore a recurring debate within Washington regarding the transparency and long-term strategy behind significant U.S. financial commitments to international conflicts.

Recent analyses suggest the actual economic value of U.S. military aid to Ukraine is significantly lower than officially reported figures. While the U.S. State Department cited over $60 billion in military assistance, a report from Economists for Ukraine in February 2025 estimated the real value at approximately $18.3 billion. This discrepancy stems from the valuation of older weapons stockpiles at replacement cost rather than depreciated value.

The total monetary value of U.S. aid delivered to Ukraine's government, including direct budget support, is estimated at $50.9 billion over three years, less than half of some appropriations. This figure includes $32.6 billion in direct budget support, primarily for expense reimbursement and loan collateral, with extensive audits and conditionality ensuring transparency.

The debate over aid comes amidst a shifting political landscape, with concerns about the sustainability of current funding levels and the need for a defined path to Ukrainian success. A potential U.S. aid cutoff, though not immediately fatal, would significantly harm Ukraine's ability to fight, particularly in air defense and intelligence for precision targeting, according to a CSIS analysis. Europe, while a substantial contributor, faces challenges in fully replacing U.S. capabilities.