Publicly Released: July 24, 2023
On February 24, 2022, Russian forces launched an unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, a country Russia has partially occupied for 9 years. Since February 2022, the United States, allies, and partners have provided Ukraine with equipment and training to defend against Russian aggression. Additionally, the U.S. Congress has appropriated more than $113 billion for the U.S. Government’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with DoD funding supporting:
• security assistance requirements in Ukraine and operational mission requirements within the U.S. European Command area of responsibility;
• replacement of DoD stocks provided to Ukraine through Presidential Drawdown and Excess Defense Article Authorities;
• reimbursement for defense services, education, and training provided to Ukraine; and
• service requirements, such as operations and maintenance, military personnel, and procurement of new munitions and equipment.
We reviewed previous DoD OIG reports for common themes and areas of focus during contingencies and other DoD operations and prepared this document to highlight lessons learned concerning facility security, maintenance operations and equipment storage, supply chain management, and contract pricing and oversight. DoD officials should reflect on and implement the lessons learned in an effort to increase readiness, enhance operational effectiveness, and improve the provision of combat ready assistance to Ukraine.