The House of Representatives passed a $60.8 billion aid package for Ukraine, ending a Republican effort to connect the aid to border security concessions. The vote was bipartisan, with 210 Democrats and 101 Republicans in favor, while 112 Republicans voted against it. The aid package is part of a larger $95 billion package that includes military aid for Israel and other Asian allies, as well as measures targeting Russian assets and TikTok. The bill now goes to the Senate, where it is expected to pass after a similar bill was approved in February.
President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill once it passes Congress. The aid to Ukraine had been delayed due to Republican attempts to link it to border security changes last September. Efforts to negotiate a bipartisan deal on the aid package failed, and a social media post by Donald Trump further complicated the issue. The bill was finally brought to a vote following recent attacks on Israel by Iran, prompting House Speaker Mike Johnson to support the aid. Democrats celebrated the bill’s passage by waving Ukrainian flags on the House floor, sparking criticism from some Republicans.
Despite some backlash from Republicans, Johnson worked with Democrats to advance the aid package, potentially jeopardizing his position as speaker. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene called for a vote to remove Johnson from his position, supported by Rep. Paul Gosar and Rep. Thomas Massie. Ukrainian officials blamed the delays in aid for recent losses to Russian forces on the battlefield. The delay also may have emboldened Russian President Vladimir Putin to increase attacks on Ukraine, as focus shifted to conflicts in other regions.
The aid package approved by the House mirrored the bill passed by the Senate in February, with bipartisan support. Democrats expressed regret over the delay in passing the aid package, which they believe sent a mixed message about the U.S.’ commitment to defending freedom. The aid to Ukraine is viewed as critical in supporting the country’s efforts to defend against Russian aggression. Republicans, however, continue to raise concerns about border security and prioritize domestic issues over international aid. The aid package to Ukraine is seen as a significant step in providing support to a key U.S. ally in a time of crisis.
