US House Passes $95 Billion Security Package for Ukraine, Israel

In a rare Saturday session, the US House of Representatives passed a comprehensive $95 billion legislative package providing security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The bill received broad bipartisan support, with 311 votes in favor and 112 against.

The package includes:

• $60.84 billion for Ukraine, including $23 billion to replenish US weapons stocks and facilities
• $26 billion for Israel, including $9.1 billion for humanitarian needs
• $8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed gratitude, saying the aid will help keep “history on the right track” and save thousands of lives.

The bill now proceeds to the Democratic-majority Senate, which passed a similar measure over two months ago. Final passage is expected next week, clearing the way for President Joe Biden to sign it into law.

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Divisions Within Republican Party Evident

The vote exposed divisions within the Republican Party, with 112 members opposing the legislation and 101 supporting it. Far-right Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a leading opponent of Ukraine aid, stopped short of attempting to remove House Speaker Mike Johnson from office over the issue.

Cracks in Solid Support for Israel

The vote also revealed cracks in what is generally solid support for Israel within Congress. Recent months have seen progressive Democrats express anger with Israel’s government and its conduct of the war in Gaza. The Israel aid package passed 366-58, with 37 Democrats and 21 Republicans in opposition.

Next Steps

The Biden administration is finalizing its next assistance package for Ukraine, which will be announced soon after the bill becomes law. The new military funding for Ukraine is expected to be depleted quickly, likely leading to further calls for action by Congress.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!