The Senate voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday night to give final approval to a $95.3 billion package of aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, marking a significant moment in U.S. foreign policy and global leadership. The bipartisan support for the measure reflected a united front in Congress, ending months of uncertainty about America’s commitment to supporting Kyiv in its fight against Russian aggression.
The bill, which passed the House on Saturday, faced challenges on Capitol Hill, with right-wing resistance nearly derailing its progress. However, the Senate’s decisive action, with a vote of 79 to 18, provided a victory for President Biden, who had urged lawmakers to move quickly to sign the bill into law.
The aid package includes $60.8 billion for Ukraine, $26.4 billion for Israel and humanitarian aid for conflict zones, and $8.1 billion for the Indo-Pacific region. In addition, the bill includes provisions for new rounds of sanctions on Iranian and Russian officials.
The passage of the bill was seen as a test of American resolve and willingness to lead on the global stage. Senate leaders hailed the bipartisan support for the legislation, emphasizing the importance of upholding the international order and projecting American values globally.
Ukrainian officials expressed gratitude for the impending passage of the bill, with the speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament posting a photo of lawmakers holding American flags in Kyiv in appreciation of the support. The United States has been a strategic partner in Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression, and the aid package is a testament to the enduring partnership between the two countries.
The passage of the aid package represents a significant moment in U.S. foreign policy, reaffirming America’s commitment to supporting its allies and standing up against tyranny and oppression. President Biden is expected to sign the bill into law promptly, allowing for the swift delivery of weapons and equipment to Ukraine to bolster its defense against Russian aggression.
