Senate Approves Bill Including Aid for Ukraine, Funding for Israel, and Potential TikTok Ban, Sending Legislation to President Biden for Approval

The Senate passed a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine and included a provision that could lead to a nationwide ban on TikTok. The vote of 79-18 sends the package to the White House, where President Joe Biden has promised to swiftly enact it.

The aid package includes $60 billion for Ukraine, $26 billion for Israel and humanitarian relief in Gaza, and $8 billion for security in Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific. The provision regarding TikTok gives the China-based parent company nine months to sell the popular social media platform or face a ban in the U.S.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer hailed the passage of the bill as a message to the world that America stands with its allies. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called it an important day for America, signaling a shift away from isolationist policies.

President Biden played a key role in pushing for the legislation, emphasizing the national security risks of inaction. The Senate had previously passed a similar aid package without the TikTok provision, but ultimately approved the revised bill.

Advocates for banning TikTok in the U.S. cite concerns about data privacy and potential Chinese government access. TikTok has vowed to challenge the law in court once it is signed by Biden.

Despite some opposition, the aid package passed overwhelmingly in the Senate, demonstrating bipartisan support for providing critical assistance to Ukraine and addressing national security concerns.