US Senate passes long-delayed $95bn bill for aid to Ukraine and Israel
Al JazeeraRepublican hardliners have promised to oppose the passage of the bill through the House of Representatives. The bill, which would open the way for desperately needed funding for Ukraine as it fights Russia’s invasion, has been delayed for months by Republican hardliners under the influence of former President Donald Trump. “Our allies and adversaries alike will take note.” ‘Steadfast’ Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer lauded senators who voted for the bill. However, US aid for Ukraine faces powerful headwinds in the House, where Trump’s interests hold greater sway with Republicans, who control the chamber by a thin majority. “What we expect to hear from the US president is that he believes that the Republicans are playing politics with this legislation… It appears right now at least to be dead on arrival.” As well as the $61bn for Ukraine, the bill includes $14bn for Israel’s war in Gaza and $4.83bn to support partners in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan, to deter potential aggression by China.