The US House of Representatives has approved a $95 billion legislative package aimed at providing security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
The measure, passed with broad bipartisan support, encountered fierce resistance from Republican hardliners but ultimately prevailed, setting the stage for further deliberation in the Democratic-majority Senate.
The legislation, which now advances to the Senate, garnered widespread attention as leaders from both parties, including Democratic President Joe Biden and top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell, urged embattled Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring it up for a vote.
The bill, scheduled for consideration in the Senate starting Tuesday, allocates $60.84 billion to address the conflict in Ukraine, with significant portions earmarked for replenishing U.S. weapons, stocks, and facilities.
Additionally, $26 billion is designated for Israel, including substantial funding for humanitarian needs, while $8.12 billion is allocated for the Indo-Pacific, notably Taiwan.
Following the House’s passage of the bill, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed gratitude, emphasising the importance of the aid in maintaining stability and saving lives.
The Biden administration is already preparing to announce additional assistance for Ukraine soon after the bill’s enactment to address urgent battlefield needs.
Despite the bill’s passage, concerns linger regarding the pace at which military funding for Ukraine may be depleted, prompting calls for further congressional action. President Biden underscored the urgency of the situation, citing ongoing threats faced by both Ukraine and Israel.
Notably, the House vote on the Ukraine funding saw 112 Republicans opposing the legislation, revealing divisions within the party.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a vocal opponent of aid to Ukraine, criticised Speaker Johnson but refrained from taking immediate action to remove him from office.
During the House proceedings, tensions arose as lawmakers waved Ukrainian flags in a show of solidarity, prompting Speaker Johnson to admonish them for violating decorum.
Meanwhile, the passage of aid to Israel, while overwhelmingly supported, also highlighted growing discontent within Congress regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, with a notable number of Democrats and Republicans opposing the measure.
The legislative package, which includes measures addressing threats posed by Chinese-owned social media app TikTok and potential transfer of seized Russian assets to Ukraine, drew criticism from some hardline Republicans citing concerns over fiscal responsibility. However, Speaker Johnson defended the bill as a necessary step to fulfill crucial obligations.
Despite internal party discord, former President Donald Trump voiced support for Speaker Johnson and emphasised the importance of Ukraine’s survival for the United States.
Chioma Kalu
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