US Aid to Ukraine and Israel to be Voted on Separately
WASHINGTON — House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that new US aid for Ukraine will be subjected to a separate vote from the question of additional military assistance for Israel.
Johnson has delayed a House vote on a $96 billion aid package designed to support both US allies, as he faces pressure from fellow Republican Party members.
However, he emphasized that an Iranian attack on Israel over the weekend has heightened the need to approve new foreign aid quickly.
Johnson mentioned that the separate aid bills may be brought to a vote within the week.
Ukraine’s Urgency in the Face of Russian Aggression
Ukraine has expressed impatience as its ammunition supplies dwindle, while Russia continues to make territorial gains in its full-scale invasion, now entering its third year.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged his allies to demonstrate the same level of unity they have shown towards Israel, emphasizing the “intensity of Russian attacks”.
However, some right-wing Republicans have raised concerns about the cost of supporting Kyiv, despite the party’s narrow control of the House. Notable figures include Donald Trump, the potential 2024 presidential candidate for the party.
Challenges and Compromises in Foreign Aid Approval
Johnson had previously tried to link Republican support for foreign aid to President Joe Biden’s actions on tightening US border security, a move that was unsuccessful.
He has also faced resistance from Marjorie Taylor-Greene, who threatened to remove him from his position due to what she perceives as compromises with rival Democrats.
After months of political deadlock surrounding the aid, Johnson pledged American support following recent events in the Middle East that affected another ally, Israel.
Global Reactions and Impending Votes
Israel was targeted by Iranian missiles and drones in response to an earlier strike on an Iranian consulate building in Syria, believed to be carried out by Israel.
Johnson emphasized the importance of the US response to current events worldwide, condemning “terrorists and tyrants and terrible leaders” including those in Russia and Iran.
The $96 billion aid package, previously approved by the Senate, will now be split into separate bills for individual votes, with potential decisions by Friday.
The White House has opposed any standalone measure solely supporting Israel.
Johnson clarified that the separated bills aim to support not only Ukraine and Israel but also strengthen allies in the Indo-Pacific and implement measures to counter adversaries and enhance national security.
He has also shown support for legislation that would structure new Ukraine aid as loans, potentially covering costs by seizing and selling frozen Russian assets. This component could also be voted on this week. — BBC
