The Senate has passed a $95 billion emergency foreign aid package that has been the subject of months of intense debate. The centerpiece of the package is $47.7 billion that will be provided to Ukraine through the Defense Department to assist in its ongoing conflict with Russia. This assistance will include training, equipment, weapons, logistical support, and supplies. An additional $13.4 billion will be allocated to replenish U.S. equipment sent to Ukraine, and $20.5 billion will be used to support U.S. Armed Forces in Europe. Economic aid to Ukraine will include $9.5 billion in the form of a forgivable loan, an idea initially proposed by former President Trump. The package also includes $15 billion in military aid for Israel, as well as $9 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza and other war-torn areas. Provisions to deter Chinese aggression and force TikTok’s Chinese owner to divest from the popular app are also included in the aid package. The package was approved by a vote of 79 to 18 and now goes to President Biden for his signature. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) both hailed the vote as a landmark moment, emphasizing America’s unwavering commitment to defending democracy and supporting its allies. McConnell criticized colleagues who had delayed the passage of aid to Ukraine, claiming that their opposition was based on “sheer fiction” and that failure to support Ukraine would only embolden adversaries. The bill faced staunch opposition from some conservative senators who expressed concerns about the effectiveness of military aid to Ukraine and potential unintended consequences of U.S. involvement. The road to getting the foreign aid to Biden’s desk has been long and politically fraught, but the Senate’s approval marks a significant step forward in providing assistance to Ukraine and other countries in need.
$95 Billion Ukraine Aid Package Finally Clears Senate
