US Senate Faces New Test on Ukraine Aid Bill
Senate to Vote on $95.34 Billion Aid Package
A narrowly divided U.S. Senate will try to move closer to passing a $95.34 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan on Sunday, hoping to show enough bipartisan support to propel the measure through Congress. The legislation needs 60 votes to overcome a procedural hurdle and continue toward Senate passage in the coming days.
Critical Aid for Ukraine
The money is crucial for Ukraine as it grinds toward the second anniversary of a Russian invasion. Democratic President Joe Biden, who has been seeking the aid for months, said Congress would be guilty of “neglect” if it failed to pass the measure.
Challenges in the House
The legislation could move more quickly if Democrats and Republicans reach an agreement to fast-track the measure, though it will face stiff opposition in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who has a slim 219-212 Republican majority, has indicated he could try to split the aid provisions into separate measures.
Bipartisan Efforts
During a visit to Kyiv, a bipartisan delegation of House lawmakers vowed to do their part to pass the measure. Senate Republicans believe bipartisan passage would help stir support among Republicans in the House.
Key Components of the Bill
The bill includes $61 billion for Ukraine, $14 billion for Israel in its war against Hamas, and $4.83 billion to support partners in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan, and deter aggression by China. It also provides $9.15 billion in humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, Ukraine, and other conflict zones around the globe.
Challenges and Hurdles
Republicans want amendments that could address the record flow of migrants across the U.S.-Mexico border and forgo humanitarian assistance provisions by restricting foreign aid to weapons and materiel. No agreement has emerged so far, with some Republicans vowing to delay consideration by forcing the Senate to comply with time-consuming parliamentary rules.
Hope for Progress
Despite the challenges, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed hope for progress on the bill. “I hope our Republican colleagues can work with us to reach an agreement on amendments, so we can move this bill more quickly,” Schumer said at the last procedural vote on Friday.
“Nevertheless, the Senate will keep working on this bill until the job is done.”
