House Approves $95 Billion in Foreign Aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Allies
House Approves $95 Billion in Foreign Aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Allies in Rare Saturday Session
In a rare Saturday session, the House swiftly approved $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other U.S. allies, marking a significant show of bipartisan support amidst ongoing political turmoil over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The $61 billion aid package for Ukraine garnered overwhelming support, showcasing a strong display of American backing for the war-torn ally. Lawmakers on the House floor cheered and waved blue-and-yellow flags of Ukraine in a symbolic gesture of solidarity.
The unique process of voting on each bill individually allowed for diverse coalitions to form around the aid packages, facilitating their passage. The entire package will now move to the Senate, where approval in the coming days is highly anticipated. President Joe Biden has pledged to promptly sign the legislation into law.
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., who has faced challenges within his own party, expressed confidence in the historic significance of the aid package, stating, “We did our work here, and I think history will judge it well.”
President Biden commended the bipartisan coalition of lawmakers for prioritizing national security and urged the Senate to swiftly send the package for his signature. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to both parties in the House for their decision, emphasizing the importance of the aid in maintaining global stability.
The passage of the aid package through the House marks a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the context of countering Russian aggression in Europe. The bipartisan support for the aid reflects a shared commitment to defending democracy and supporting allies in times of need.
While the aid for Ukraine is expected to garner broad bipartisan support, divisions may arise over the bill aiding Israel, with progressive Democrats calling for an end to the violence in Gaza. Former President Donald Trump’s influence on the Republican Party’s stance on foreign aid has also been a factor in the debate.
The aid package includes several Republican priorities that Democrats have endorsed, underscoring the bipartisan nature of the legislation. The urgent push to pass the bills reflects the escalating crisis in Ukraine, with lawmakers expressing grave concerns about the situation on the ground.
Overall, the approval of the foreign aid package represents a significant bipartisan effort to support U.S. allies and uphold American values on the global stage. The swift action taken by Congress underscores the importance of standing united in the face of international challenges.