The U.S. Senate has passed a $95 billion foreign aid package to provide security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The bill received enough votes to be sent to the White House for President Joe Biden’s signature, turning it into law, as reported by Alhurra American channel on Wednesday.
The legislation was supported by both Democrats and Republicans, passing with a majority of 75 votes against 17, well over the required majority in the 100-member Senate.
President Biden stated, “A bipartisan majority in the Senate, along with the House of Representatives, has responded to the call of history at this pivotal moment… Congress has passed legislation to bolster our national security and send a message about the strength of American leadership.”
He added, “We stand firmly for democracy and freedom, and against tyranny and oppression,” indicating that he would sign the bill today to make it law and begin the shipment of weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week.
However, the bill’s progression faces challenges in the House of Representatives. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican leaders have expressed reservations, particularly concerning the absence of border security measures within the bill, which they argue is a pressing domestic issue. This political friction reflects the broader national debate over prioritizing foreign aid versus domestic concerns, influenced heavily by former President Donald Trump’s stance against extensive foreign aid without reciprocal benefits to the U.S.
President Joe Biden has urged the House to act swiftly on this legislation, highlighting its importance for U.S. national security and the global democratic order. He emphasized the strategic implications of failing to support allies like Ukraine during critical times. The administration argues that supporting Ukraine not only counters Russian aggression but also reinforces global stability and the principles of national sovereignty and democracy.
The bill also includes financial provisions for humanitarian assistance and support for other global partners, underscoring the U.S.’s role in addressing international security and humanitarian crises
