The House voted resoundingly on Saturday to approve $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, in a historic move that saw Speaker Mike Johnson putting his job on the line to advance the long-stalled aid package. The bipartisan support for the funding reflected a commitment to helping Ukraine fend off Russian aggression, as well as a willingness to support key allies in the region.
In a series of back-to-back votes, lawmakers approved funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, as well as a bill that could result in a nationwide ban of TikTok. The legislation includes $60 billion for Ukraine, $26 billion for Israel, and humanitarian aid for conflict zones, and $8 billion for the Indo-Pacific region. It also includes measures to sell off frozen Russian assets to support the Ukrainian war effort and impose new sanctions on Iran.
The vote, which was 311 to 112 in favor of aid to Ukraine, showcased the bipartisan support for the measure, with a majority of Republicans voting against it. President Biden praised the House for passing the legislation, emphasizing the importance of American leadership on the world stage.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine thanked lawmakers for their support, noting that the aid bill would help prevent the war from expanding and save lives. Outside the Capitol, a jubilant crowd waved Ukrainian flags and chanted “Thank you U.S.A.” as lawmakers exited the building.
The passage of the aid package comes after months of uncertainty over whether Congress would approve new funding for Ukraine. Speaker Johnson faced opposition from ultraconservative members of his party but ultimately pushed the measure through with the support of Democrats. The move was seen as a significant shift for Johnson, who had previously voted against aid to Ukraine.
The legislation now heads to the Senate, where it is expected to pass and be signed into law by President Biden. The vote represents a crucial moment in U.S. foreign policy and a reaffirmation of America’s commitment to supporting its allies in the face of global threats.
