The US House of Representatives has approved $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other US allies in a rare Saturday session. The aid package includes $61 billion for Ukraine, which passed with overwhelming support, Associated Press reports.
The move comes after months of resistance, particularly from hard-right Republicans, over renewed American support for Ukraine amidst Russia’s invasion. House Speaker Mike Johnson, risking his own job to ensure the passage of the aid package, described it as a historic moment, emphasizing the importance of supporting US allies during times of war and threats. US President Joe Biden praised the bipartisan effort, urging the Senate to pass the package quickly.
While some Republicans opposed the aid, arguing for a focus on domestic issues like border security and the nation’s debt, others joined Democrats to support the measure. The aid package includes several Republican priorities, including seizing frozen Russian assets, imposing sanctions on Iran, Russia, and China, and criminal organizations involved in fentanyl trafficking.
The package also includes support for Israel, which some progressive Democrats voted against due to concerns about the situation in Gaza, and legislation to require the Chinese-based owner of the popular video app TikTok to sell its stake within a year or face a ban in the US.
