Senate Democrats have released a draft emergency Ukraine-Israel bill, requesting $111 billion
On Wednesday, Senate Republicans thwarted the progression of a $110 billion package earmarked for wartime funding in Ukraine and Israel, along with other national security priorities. The vote, falling short at 49-51, failed to meet the Senate's 60-vote threshold for advancement. This move came shortly after President Joe Biden expressed his dismay at Congress not yet approving tens of billions in military and economic aid for Ukraine. The Biden administration emphasized the severe consequences for Kyiv and the potential boon it would be for Russia's Vladimir Putin if lawmakers do not act swiftly.
During a White House address, Biden criticized Republicans who tied changes to U.S. border policy as a condition for supporting the aid, accusing them of "playing chicken with our national security." Despite expressing openness to some policy changes, Biden stressed that such conditions risked compromising American credibility with adversaries and allies alike. He argued that any disruption in supplying aid to Ukraine would bolster Putin's position and questioned how the world would respond if the U.S. failed to support Ukraine.
Biden's remarks followed discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and leaders of the Group of Seven nations, who have consistently supported Ukraine against Russia's ongoing invasion. Biden has requested nearly $106 billion from Congress to fund efforts in Ukraine, Israel, and other security needs. However, resistance on Capitol Hill, particularly from some Republicans weary of supporting Ukraine further, has complicated the approval process. Some GOP members are insisting on stringent changes to U.S. border policy as a prerequisite for endorsing the aid package.
While Biden expressed support for additional funding for border security and willingness to make compromises, he accused Republicans of prioritizing a political issue over bipartisan compromise. He emphasized that Republicans seemed unwilling to engage in bipartisan negotiations and were jeopardizing national security and Ukraine's position on the battlefield.
Despite the warnings, Biden has not specified the policy changes he would accept. The White House continues to highlight the urgent need for approval before the year's end to prevent a stall or deterioration in Ukraine's military capabilities.
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