The Senate achieved a significant bipartisan victory on Tuesday night by passing a comprehensive package worth $95 billion in foreign aid. This aid is set to be delivered to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, marking a major milestone after months of hard work and collaboration.
The package received approval by a vote of 79-18.
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In a surprising turn of events, a total of 31 Republicans have joined forces with 48 Democrats to successfully pass the much-needed aid package. This marks a significant increase of nine Republicans since the last time the Senate considered the legislation in February. However, it’s worth noting that two Democrats, namely Sens. Jeff Merkley and Peter Welch, as well as independent Sen. Bernie Sanders, stood against the legislation, alongside 15 Republicans.
Four bills that received bipartisan support were passed in the House over the weekend as part of the legislation.
The package includes approximately $26 billion in aid for Israel, which is currently engaged in a conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Additionally, it allocates $61 billion to support Ukraine and $8 billion to strengthen alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. Another bill within the package aims to compel a U.S. prohibition of TikTok if its Chinese parent company fails to divest it. Furthermore, it imposes sanctions on Russia, China, and Iran, and proposes the seizure of Russian assets to aid Ukraine in rebuilding after the devastation caused by the conflict.
President Joe Biden plans to sign the package on Wednesday as it makes its way to his desk.
“A bipartisan majority in the Senate, along with the House, has come together to respond to the crucial moment in history,” stated Biden. “My legislation has been passed by Congress, which not only reinforces our national security but also sends a powerful message to the world. It demonstrates the unwavering commitment of American leadership to democracy and freedom, while firmly opposing tyranny and oppression.”
Biden emphasized the urgent need for funds by the ally countries seeking aid.
The urgency is undeniable. Ukraine finds itself under constant bombardment from Russia. Israel has recently endured unprecedented attacks from Iran. Refugees and individuals affected by conflicts and natural disasters in various parts of the world, such as Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti, are in desperate need of assistance. Additionally, our partners in the Indo-Pacific region are seeking security and stability.
During a late-night press conference following the vote, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his enthusiasm and celebrated the bipartisan success of the passage of the foreign aid package.
“It’s not a common occurrence to be able to claim that you have genuinely improved the world, but I believe that tonight, the Senate can make that statement, and I am immensely proud of the outcome,” expressed Schumer.
“America is sending a powerful message to the entire world: we will not abandon you. We are standing firmly by the side of our allies, and we caution our adversaries not to underestimate us. This national security bill, recently approved by Congress, is a significant milestone in safeguarding America’s security and the stability of Western democracy,” emphasized Schumer.
Schumer commended his fellow lawmakers for their bipartisan efforts in successfully passing the bill. He specifically recognized Minority Leader Mitch McConnell for his contributions.
Schumer praised his unwavering commitment to doing what was right.
In a comprehensive press conference following a previous procedural vote on the package, McConnell expressed his belief that his party is making headway in overcoming the trends of isolationism that he has long been opposed to. While acknowledging that the isolationist inclination within his party still exists, he remains optimistic about the progress that has been achieved.
Mitch McConnell expressed his belief that there is a trend towards America taking on a more active leadership role in the world. He emphasized the importance of the United States fulfilling its responsibilities and doing what is necessary to lead on the global stage.
Considering the groundswell of GOP support, he saw it as a victory.
“I believe we have made significant progress in this debate,” he expressed, emphasizing, “The isolationist movement appears to be losing its ground. It’s fascinating to observe the unease among those who advocate for this ideology when labeled as isolationists. We have undeniably achieved some headway, and it is imperative that we maintain this momentum.”
What’s next?
Biden stated that aid will be given to certain ally countries in a matter of days.
According to a U.S. official, the Biden administration had prepared a military assistance package worth around $1 billion for Ukraine, in anticipation of the bill passing. The first shipment of this package is expected to arrive within days of the approval.
The package will consist of much-needed artillery rounds, air defense ammunition, and armored vehicles, as disclosed by the official. These weapons and equipment will be sourced from the current U.S. stockpiles under the authority of presidential drawdown (PDA).
According to America’s top general in Europe, Ukraine’s battle against Russia cannot be won without adequate funding.
According to Gen. Christopher Cavoli of U.S. European Command, the Ukrainian side is currently being outshot by the Russians at a ratio of five to one in terms of artillery shells fired. The Ukrainians are unable to fire back at the same rate. Gen. Cavoli warned the House Armed Services Committee that this ratio is expected to increase to 10 to one within a few weeks, not months.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s stance on Ukraine aid has developed over time. Initially, he believed that changes to border and immigration policy were necessary in order to support the provision of aid. However, he has since shifted his approach and is now collaborating with Democrats to pass the most recent bills related to Ukraine aid.
Lawmakers faced mounting pressure to provide assistance to foreign allies following Iran’s recent attacks on Israel. The attacks were in retaliation for a strike on an Iranian consular complex in Syria, and with Russian forces making offensive gains, the situation became even more urgent.
“I want to express my gratitude to Speaker Johnson for his courage and integrity. In his own words, he acknowledged the immense political pressure he faced but still chose to do what was right,” Schumer stated.
