Planet Money How much of your tax dollars are going to Israel and Ukraine
48 snips
Mar 29, 2024 Allison McManus, an expert at the Center for American Progress, dives into the contentious topic of U.S. tax dollars funding wars in Ukraine and Gaza. She breaks down how taxpayer money is allocated, exploring the moral implications and public concerns about military aid. The conversation reveals the complexities of foreign assistance and deficit spending, highlighting the financial mechanisms that underpin military funding. McManus also sheds light on the unique financial arrangements that Israel utilizes for military purchases, intertwining U.S. foreign policy and budgetary practices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Taxpayer Concerns Over War Funding
- US taxpayers debate financial support for wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
- Concerns include the use of funds for weapons and the impact on civilians.
Types of US Foreign Assistance
- US aid to other countries flows through various channels like security, economic, and humanitarian assistance.
- A significant portion is allocated as foreign military financing, specifically for purchasing US weapons.
Foreign Military Financing and Weapon Sales
- Foreign Military Financing (FMF) primarily supports purchasing US-made weapons, though exceptions exist.
- Israel can use some FMF funds to buy Israeli-made weapons due to a special agreement.