The Senate has taken a significant step towards approving a comprehensive $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The vote, which drew overwhelming support with 80 senators in favor, brings the bill to the brink of passage after months of debate.
The legislation provides $61 billion to Ukraine, bolstering the country’s defense capabilities as it faces relentless attacks from Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized the urgent need for air defense weaponry and has expressed his gratitude for the US’s swift approval of the package.
The bill also includes $26 billion in wartime assistance to Israel and humanitarian relief for citizens of Gaza. Additionally, $8 billion is allocated to support Taiwan and counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
To secure broader support, Republicans included a provision in the package that would ban TikTok in the US if its Chinese owners fail to sell their stake within a year. This move appears to have swayed nine additional Republican senators, indicating a clear majority of the Senate GOP conference now backs the legislation.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the urgency of the vote, highlighting the need to provide immediate assistance to US allies worldwide. Despite opposition from a growing number of conservatives who question US involvement in foreign affairs, the bill has garnered widespread support.
The revised House package also addressed some Republican priorities, including allowing the US to seize frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine, imposing sanctions on Iran, Russia, and criminal organizations involved in fentanyl trafficking, and potentially banning TikTok in the US. These provisions have garnered bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.
While the package has faced some criticism from left-wing senators who oppose aid to Israel, its overwhelming support suggests it will soon reach President Biden’s desk for his signature.
