The Pentagon has reportedly received a $130 million donation from an anonymous ally of President Donald Trump, intended to help pay military personnel during the ongoing government shutdown, according to USA Today.
Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the donation in a statement, saying the funds were accepted under the department’s “general acceptance authority.” “The donation was made on the condition that it be used to offset the cost of Service members’ salaries and benefits. We are grateful for this donor’s assistance after Democrats opted to withhold pay from troops,” Parnell explained.
President Donald Trump also referenced the donation during an October 23 press conference, where he declined to identify the individual who provided the money.
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Donation Aimed at Supporting Troops During Shutdown
The Pentagon intends to use funds donated by private donors to help cover military salaries and benefits during the shutdown. While essential government functions and defense operations have continued, many federal employees and service members have faced uncertainty over when they will receive pay.
The donation reportedly came with specific conditions—it could be applied only to service member pay and benefits, not to general operations or other government costs.
Military personnel have continued to work throughout the shutdown but have not been guaranteed paychecks. The Pentagon had previously adjusted its budget to ensure that active-duty troops received payment on October 15, though it remains unclear whether they will be paid on October 31.
Officials did not specify how many paychecks would be distributed using the donation.
