The US Defense Department confirmed that President Donald Trump’s administration is receiving a $130 million donation from an anonymous ally, which will be used to offset military service members’ salaries and benefits during the ongoing government shutdown.
This move breaks with traditional government procedure for funding the military, as it relies on public funds approved by Congress. The identity of the donor remains unknown, raising questions about their motivations and potential ties to foreign entities.
The donation is unlikely to significantly impact the salaries of 1.3 million active duty military troops, who would receive around $100 per service member. Congressional appropriators are seeking more information from the administration, with Democrats expressing concerns over its legality and potential implications for national security.
Budget experts question whether using the anonymous donation violates the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits federal agencies from using excess funds allocated to them. The White House has declined to comment on the donor’s identity or any potential foreign ties.
This move marks a significant departure from standard government procedure and raises concerns about the use of private donations in funding military operations.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/10/24/politics/anonymous-donor-military-pay-shutdown