US House Approves $61 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine-Russia Conflict

The House of Representatives has finally approved billions of dollars in new US military aid for Ukraine to help combat Russia’s invasion. The $61 billion aid package faced vocal opposition in Congress but ultimately passed with a fragile bipartisan deal.

Republicans highlighted that more than a third of the aid would be dedicated to replenishing weapons and ammunition for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for the US support, calling it “vital” as his country struggles to contain invading Russian troops.

The aid is expected to include air defense systems, mid to long-range missiles, and artillery shells, crucial for Ukraine’s defense against the advancing Russian forces. President Zelensky emphasized the urgency of the aid, stating that the right weapons could change the situation on the frontline.

The aid package will now move to the Senate for approval, with President Joe Biden expected to sign it into law promptly. In addition to military assistance, Ukraine will also receive over $9 billion in economic aid in the form of forgivable loans.

The passage of the aid package was met with cheers and applause in the House, with some Representatives waving Ukrainian flags in solidarity. President Biden praised the bipartisan effort and urged the Senate to approve the aid quickly to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs on the battlefield.

The aid package also includes military support for Israel and funding for allies in the Asia-Pacific region to counter China. Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and EU chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel expressed support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

The passage of the aid package marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, providing much-needed support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.