In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Democrats and Republicans in the US House of Representatives came together to approve a package of bills aimed at supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion. The package, which includes $60.8 billion in aid, is expected to pass the Senate and be signed into law by President Biden.
As the vote passed, representatives could be seen waving small Ukrainian flags in a show of solidarity. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to Twitter to express his gratitude, saying the decision “keeps history on the right track” and will help save thousands of lives.
He emphasized the importance of American support, stating that “democracy and freedom will always have global importance and will never fail as long as America helps to protect it.”
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Credits: 90.5 WESA)
The package includes aid to Ukraine, as well as foreign aid to Israel and security assistance to Taiwan and allies in the Indo-Pacific. Additionally, it includes a measure that would ban Chinese-owned social media app TikTok. The bill’s passage marks a huge step forward in supporting Ukraine and promoting democracy and freedom globally.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Credits: The Japan Times)
While the package received widespread support, some critics argue that the US is prioritizing foreign wars over domestic issues, such as border security. Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a close ally of Donald Trump, said the vote was “the sellout of America today.”
She criticized the focus on foreign aid, saying that the US should prioritize its own border security. Despite this criticism, the package is seen as a vital step forward in supporting Ukraine and promoting democracy and freedom globally.
As Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron tweeted, “If Putin ever doubted the West’s resolve to back Ukraine, this shows our collective will is undimmed.” The package’s passage demonstrates the US’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and promoting global stability.
