Brief

Trump sons linked to Powerus drone startup planning Pentagon imports

The brothers hold a 9.9% stake in the merged company as it seeks to bring foreign drone technology to U.S. defense contracts.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 01 Oct 2026 03:32:05 GMT

Powerus, a Florida‑based drone startup, intends to import technology from Ukraine and other partners to meet rising Pentagon demand, according to company leaders. The firm will go public by merging with Nasdaq‑listed Aureus Greenway Holdings, a golf‑course operator, in early October.

Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump hold an indirect interest through their investment fund American Ventures, which regulatory filings show will retain a 9.9% beneficial stake in the combined business. Both brothers are described as passive investors with no operational role, according to statements from Powerus executives and spokespeople for the Trump brothers.

Keith Kellogg, a former Trump envoy to Ukraine and Powerus advisory board member, said, "It never hurts to have their name on something," highlighting the branding advantage the brothers bring.

Powerus plans growth through acquisitions, foreign partnerships and domestic manufacturing, aiming to become an American partner that can import and produce defense technology developed abroad, especially in Ukraine.

Brett Velicovich, Powerus president, told Reuters that the company’s objective is to supply the U.S. defense sector with autonomous systems that proved vital in the Ukraine war.

Key facts

Powerus will merge with Aureus Greenway Holdings in early October to go public. (independent.co.uk)
Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump hold an indirect 9.9% stake via American Ventures. (independent.co.uk)
The startup aims to import Ukrainian drone technology for Pentagon contracts. (independent.co.uk)
Keith Kellogg, former Trump envoy to Ukraine, serves on Powerus advisory board. (independent.co.uk)
Powerus plans growth through acquisitions, foreign partnerships and domestic manufacturing. (independent.co.uk)