The U.S. Senate is poised to approve a significant $95.34 billion support package aimed at Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, demonstrating strong bipartisan support in the face of criticism from some Republican hardliners and Donald Trump.
In an unusual Sunday session, the Senate, led by Democrats, voted 67-27 to overcome a procedural obstacle, setting the stage for a final vote soon.
This financial assistance is deemed essential by Kyiv as it approaches the two-year mark of Russia’s invasion. Nonetheless, the bill’s journey is not over, as it must next be considered by the House of Representatives, where its fate is less certain due to the Republican majority.
Despite Trump’s criticism on social media, where he suggested that the aid should be provided as a loan and made controversial remarks about NATO allies, 18 Republican senators supported the bill.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell rebuked those who question U.S. international engagement, emphasizing the importance of American leadership on the global stage.
President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has been advocating for this aid for several months and warned that failure to pass the bill would constitute “neglect” by Congress.
The Senate is scheduled to conduct two procedural votes on Monday evening, which could lead to a final vote on Wednesday.
The proposed legislation allocates $61 billion for Ukraine, $14 billion for Israel to support its efforts against Hamas, and $4.83 billion to bolster allies in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan, against Chinese aggression.
Additionally, it includes $9.15 billion for humanitarian aid in Gaza, the West Bank, Ukraine, and other conflict zones worldwide.
