House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing a tough decision on Ukraine aid as lawmakers prepare to return to Washington next week. With pressure mounting from both sides of the aisle, Johnson is carefully weighing his options to ensure the best path forward for his party and his speakership.
Sources say Johnson is considering various approaches, including incorporating the REPO act to seize Russian assets and use the funds for Ukraine, or structuring aid as a loan. However, these options come with challenges, as some conservatives oppose further aid to Ukraine and others demand offsets or loans instead of deficit spending.
The speaker’s decision could have significant implications for his leadership, with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene already introducing a resolution to oust him over the issue. Johnson will need to navigate a narrow margin in the House and potentially rely on Democratic votes to pass any aid package.
Democrats, while committed to providing aid to Ukraine, are waiting for Johnson to outline a clear plan before committing their support. The White House has indicated openness to structuring aid as a loan if that is the House’s preferred approach.
As Johnson faces increasing pressure from defense hawks and a divided chamber, the path forward remains uncertain. With Democrats waiting in the wings and conservatives pushing for alternative solutions, the speaker’s next move could determine the fate of Ukraine aid and his speakership.