WASHINGTON: Lawmakers in the US House of Representatives on Saturday began debate ahead of voting on crucial aid for Ukraine and Israel — and a possible ban of TikTok.
Scheduled votes on the comprehensive aid bills are expected to begin at 1:00 pm (1700 GMT), with Republican Speaker Mike Johnson requiring Democratic support to secure their passage.
The aid package, representing the culmination of months of negotiations and international pressure, addresses urgent requests for assistance from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
For nearly a year and a half, Congress has grappled with approving substantial funding for Ukraine, with partisan divisions hindering progress on the issue. However, President Joe Biden and Democratic lawmakers have advocated for increased military support for Ukraine, which has faced a protracted conflict with Russia.
The proposed aid package includes $61 billion for Ukraine, comprising economic assistance and military aid. Speaker Johnson emphasized the importance of bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, stating, “I would rather send bullets to Ukraine than American boys.”
Additionally, the aid bills allocate significant funding for other key priorities, including $13 billion in military assistance for Israel to enhance its Iron Dome air defense system. Moreover, funds will be allocated to address humanitarian needs in Gaza.
Furthermore, the aid package includes provisions that would compel TikTok to divest from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, or face a nationwide ban in the United States.
The White House has expressed strong support for the legislation, highlighting its significance in addressing global challenges and reaffirming President Biden’s intention to sign the bills promptly upon passage.
While the aid package is anticipated to receive favorable reception from US allies, it may jeopardize Speaker Johnson’s position, as a faction of far-right isolationist Republican lawmakers has threatened to oust him for backing the bills.
The Senate, led by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, has pledged to swiftly consider the measures following their passage in the House.
