U.S. Senate releases draft of $118 billion bipartisan bill, which would provide $60 billion in military aid to Ukraine, $14 billion to Israel and $20 billion for border security.

On Sunday, Senators unveiled a significant $118 billion legislative package that combines policies on border enforcement with support for Ukraine, Israel, and other allies of the U.S. amidst wartime, initiating an ambitious attempt to navigate the bill through the considerable doubts of Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.

This bill represents a crucial opportunity for President Joe Biden to deliver essential wartime support to Ukraine, aligning with a key aspect of his foreign policy agenda. This aim is supported by both the Senate's leading Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and its leading Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. A critical preliminary vote on this bill by the Senate is anticipated this week, though it confronts significant opposition from conservative members.

The delay in Congress over the approval of $60 billion for Ukraine has led to a stoppage of crucial military supplies to Kyiv, putting Ukrainian forces at a disadvantage against the Russian invasion.

President Biden emphasized the importance of the Senate's bill, stating it would enable the U.S. to continue its crucial support for Ukraine's fight for freedom and self-defense against Russian aggression. He also highlighted the need for reform in the U.S. immigration system, stating that the proposed bill would enhance national security, ensure a more secure border, and uphold fair, humane treatment of individuals while maintaining legal immigration in line with U.S. values.

The proposed legislation aims to bolster U.S. defense production, allocate $14 billion in military assistance to Israel, direct nearly $5 billion to support allies in the Asia-Pacific region, and offer humanitarian aid to those affected by conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

During a media briefing following the bill's introduction, Schumer remarked on the unprecedented level of collaboration with McConnell on this initiative, describing the bill as a significant stride towards enhancing national security domestically and internationally.

Schumer warned of the potential consequences without the aid for Ukraine, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin could further escalate his military aggression into Ukraine and possibly Eastern Europe.

McConnell emphasized the urgency of the Senate's action, noting that American sovereignty and international credibility are under scrutiny, both domestically and from global adversaries. He stressed the necessity for the U.S. to demonstrate determination in facing these challenges.