Kathmandu— US President Donald Trump has imposed significant tariffs on imported drones and their components, potentially disrupting Ukraine’s efforts to increase drone exports to the United States. The tariffs, announced Thursday, range from 25% to 100% depending on weight and features, targeting both complete aircraft and critical parts. While select US partners will receive reduced rates, Ukraine was not included in these exemptions, raising questions about planned agreements for Ukrainian drones within the Pentagon’s Drone Dominance program. The White House stated the measures aim to bolster domestic production and address supply chain vulnerabilities, but could complicate a potential deal Zelensky suggested could be worth $10-30 billion.

Tariff Details and Exemptions

Under the new proclamation, drones weighing over 25 kilograms and those equipped with thermal imagers will face a 100% tariff. Smaller unmanned aircraft will be subject to a 25% levy, along with certain docking stations and essential components. The tariffs are set to take effect within 21 days, though some provisions have an 180-day delay. Notably, the US has offered reduced rates to several partners: the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan will see a 15% tariff, while the UK faces a 10% rate.

Ukraine’s Drone Export Ambitions

The timing of these tariffs coincides with Ukraine's renewed push to sell drones to the US. Last month, Trump indicated Washington would purchase Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and reports emerged that Kiev had reached an agreement to export drones for the Pentagon’s Drone Dominance program. President Zelensky previously proposed a broader drone deal potentially valued between $10 billion and $30 billion. However, neither Washington nor Kiev has clarified whether these planned purchases will be exempt from the new tariffs or how the duties might affect the agreements.

US Domestic Production Concerns

The White House justified the tariffs by citing a Commerce Department review that found the US to be overly reliant on foreign drone technology and components. Officials stated the measures are intended to mitigate supply chain risks and enhance domestic production capabilities. This move comes as the Pentagon seeks to rapidly expand its own unmanned systems, acknowledging challenges in keeping pace with the evolving use of drones – particularly those used for reconnaissance and attack – in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Challenges Facing Ukrainian Defense Sector

Ukraine has been aiming to leverage its domestic weapons production as a significant source of export revenue, even while continuing to depend on Western military and financial aid. Officials have discussed earning billions through arms sales and establishing export hubs throughout Europe. However, the country’s defense sector has also faced scrutiny due to corruption scandals, including investigations into alleged embezzlement and inflated procurement contracts. Concerns have also been raised by European officials regarding the potential for weapons supplied to Kiev to fall into criminal networks.

The impact of these tariffs on the proposed drone deals between Ukraine and the US remains uncertain as both countries assess how to navigate the new trade restrictions.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.