WASHINGTON. The U.S. House of Representatives swiftly approved $95 billion in foreign aid, including $61 billion for Ukraine, Israel, and other allies. This significant move comes after months of intense debate and resistance, particularly from hard-right factions, regarding renewed American support against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The House chamber witnessed a rare show of unity as Democrats and Republicans joined forces to pass the aid package, with overwhelming support for Ukraine evident in the waving of blue-and-yellow flags on the floor. Alongside aid for Ukraine, support for Israel and other allies garnered healthy margins of approval.
Notably, amidst the aid approval, a measure targeting the social media platform TikTok also received backing. The comprehensive aid package, now headed to the Senate, is expected to receive swift approval, potentially by Tuesday.
President Joe Biden lauded the bipartisan effort, emphasizing the urgency of providing support to Ukraine to address its pressing military needs. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support, hailing the decision as pivotal for history.
The passage of the aid package marks a significant breakthrough after months of deadlock and dysfunction, primarily fueled by Republican divisions over foreign aid. Speaker Mike Johnson, relying on Democratic support, managed to secure approval for the aid package, overcoming internal opposition within his party.
The House debate underscored a collective sense of responsibility to uphold U.S. commitments to its allies and maintain its global leadership role. Despite opposition from some quarters, leaders emphasized the historic significance of the moment and the imperative of supporting allies amid global conflicts and threats.
With the House hurdle cleared, President Biden’s funding request, initiated in October amid dwindling military supplies in Ukraine, now moves closer to realization. The aid package represents a pivotal step in U.S. foreign policy, signaling a renewed commitment to international alliances and strategic interests.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
