U.S. Defense Contractors Allowed to Repair American Equipment inside Ukraine

The U.S. Department of Defense has lifted its ban on military contractors entering Ukraine to repair U.S.-supplied equipment.

According to a Pentagon representative, after a thorough risk assessment, the Pentagon will allow a small number of contractors to assist in maintaining advanced systems like F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems.

This decision expands the presence of U.S. contractors in Ukraine. The U.S. State Department and USAID have already contracted American companies to support various sectors, including Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Pentagon officials have emphasized that contractors will be responsible for their own safety and must submit risk mitigation plans as part of the bidding process, TASS reported.

The move aligns with ongoing U.S. efforts and won't significantly increase the number of American personnel, as many U.S. companies are already operating in Ukraine..

The policy shift also follows President-elect Trump’s skepticism about U.S. aid, creating uncertainty about future policy after he takes office in January.

U.S. officials say the policy change aims to support Ukraine’s defense without direct U.S. military involvement, aligning with a strategy to aid Ukraine while avoiding confrontation with nuclear-armed Russia.