House Approves $95 Billion in Foreign Aid for Ukraine, Israel, and U.S. Allies

House Approves $95 Billion in Foreign Aid for Ukraine, Israel, and U.S. Allies

In a rare Saturday session, the House swiftly approved $95 billion in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and other U.S. allies. This decision came after months of resistance, particularly from hard-right factions, over renewed American support for repelling Russia’s invasion.

The $61 billion aid package for Ukraine passed with an overwhelming vote in a matter of minutes, prompting cheers and the waving of Ukrainian flags from many Democrats on the House floor. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had previously warned that his country would struggle to win the war without U.S. funding, expressed his gratitude for the decision of U.S. lawmakers.

“We appreciate every sign of support for our country and its independence, people, and way of life, which Russia is attempting to bury under the rubble,” Zelenskyy wrote on social media.

Zelenskyy also highlighted that the aid package would directly benefit the Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines, such as infantry soldier Oleksandr, who is fighting in the Donetsk region. Oleksandr emphasized the importance of the support from the U.S. and their partners in stopping the Russian forces and liberating Ukrainian territory.

The aid holdup over the past six months had led to ammunition shortages for the Ukrainian military, forcing commanders to ration shells. This disadvantage allowed Russia to make territorial gains, including the city of Avdiivka and the ongoing advance towards Chasiv Yar.

Western leaders, including NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, praised the passing of the aid package, emphasizing Ukraine’s need for support against Russia.

In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the approval of aid to Ukraine “expected and predictable,” while Russian officials criticized the decision, claiming it would lead to further conflict and casualties.

The aid package will now move to the U.S. Senate for approval, with President Joe Biden promising to sign it immediately. The decision marks a significant show of bipartisan support for U.S. allies facing external threats and conflicts.

Byline: Morton, reporting from London.