US Senate Passes $95.34 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan Amid House Uncertainty

The Democratic-led US Senate approved a substantial aid package totaling $95.34 billion for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The legislative measure garnered robust bipartisan support, passing with a 70-29 vote that surpassed the required 60-vote threshold. This approval sends the bill to the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, where its prospects remain uncertain.

The package, which emerged as a testament to the Senate’s commitment to bolstering not only US national security but also the security of its allies and the principles of Western democracy, saw 22 Republicans joining the majority of Democrats in favor. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer lauded the bill as a historic move, highlighting its significance in shaping the security landscape for the US and its partners.

The Senate’s pre-dawn vote concluded an overnight marathon of speeches led by eight staunch Republican opponents of Ukraine aid, who held the floor for more than six hours in protest. The aid package aims to address urgent needs highlighted by Democratic President Joe Biden, who has emphasized the importance of quick support to Ukraine amid ongoing aggression from Russia, and to US partners in the Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan. Following the attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, the bill also seeks to provide assistance to Israel and humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza.

Despite passing the Senate, the bill faces an uphill battle in the House, where Republican Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the lack of conservative measures to address the surge of migrants at the US-Mexico border. Johnson’s statement points to a potential deadlock, as he insists on the House pursuing its own approach to these matters.