The $95 billion legislative package providing security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan has been passed by the United States House of Representatives with broad bipartisan support. Despite objections from Republican hardliners, the bill is now expected to be voted on by the Democratic-majority Senate next week before being signed into law by President Joe Biden.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the support from US lawmakers, stating that the aid bill will help prevent the war from escalating and save countless lives. In contrast, Russian officials criticized the legislation, calling it a direct sponsorship of terrorist activity.
The House also passed aid for Israel, with some cracks in the traditionally strong support for the country within Congress becoming evident. The vote on the Israel aid saw opposition from both Democrats and Republicans, signaling a shift in attitudes within the Democratic Party.
The bill also includes funding for security contractors who could potentially supply equipment to Ukraine and other US partners. Despite threats of removal from hardline members within his own party, House Speaker Mike Johnson pushed forward with the legislation, which also includes measures targeting Chinese-owned social media app TikTok and the transfer of seized Russian assets to Ukraine.