The US Senate has passed a bipartisan $95 billion foreign aid package that will provide military assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The bill passed with an overwhelming 79-18 vote, ending a prolonged delay in securing military assistance for Kyiv amid strong opposition from several top House Republicans.
The bill includes $40 billion for Ukraine, $3.3 billion for Israel, and $2 billion for Taiwan. The aid will be used to provide weapons, equipment, and training to these countries as they face threats from Russia, Iran, and China, respectively.
President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law as soon as it reaches his desk tomorrow, and the US will begin sending weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week.
The passage of the bill was hailed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said it reinforces America’s role as a beacon of democracy and the leader of the free world. The bill also received praise from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who said it was one of the most consequential measures Congress has passed in years to protect America’s security and the future of democracy.
The passage of the bill is a significant victory for Biden, who has been pushing for increased military assistance to Ukraine since the start of the war in February. It also reflects the bipartisan support for Ukraine in the US Congress, with both Democrats and Republicans supporting the bill.
The bill’s passage comes at a critical time for Ukraine, which is facing a renewed offensive from Russian forces in the eastern part of the country. The aid will help Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression and to rebuild its economy after the war.