The House of Representatives has approved billions in new military aid for Ukraine amidst Russia’s invasion

The US House of Representatives has passed a much-awaited $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, aimed at helping the country combat Russia’s ongoing invasion. The package faced opposition in Congress, but a bipartisan agreement ultimately led to its approval.

Republicans raised concerns that more than a third of the aid would go towards replenishing weapons and ammunition, emphasizing the need to bolster Ukraine’s defences.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the US support as “vital” in the country’s struggle against Russian forces.

The aid is expected to include air defence systems, mid to long-range missiles, and artillery shells, but the timeline for its arrival remains uncertain. The package will now move to the Senate, where it’s anticipated to pass within the next few days before being signed into law by President Joe Biden.

Ukraine, heavily reliant on Western weapons, faces urgent needs as it battles Russian troops, who have been making significant advances in recent weeks. President Zelensky stressed the importance of receiving the aid promptly, highlighting its potential to alter the situation on the frontline.

Alongside military aid, Ukraine will also receive over $9 billion in economic assistance in the form of “forgivable loans,” providing much-needed financial support.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, tens of thousands of people, including civilians and soldiers, have been killed or injured, with millions more displaced from their homes. Ukrainian forces are running low on munitions, leading to rationing of artillery shells on a front line spanning over 1,200 km.

The House’s approval of the aid package, with a vote of 311 to 112, was met with cheers and applause, with some Representatives waving Ukrainian flags in celebration. President Biden commended the bipartisan effort and urged the Senate to pass it quickly.

The aid package also includes significant support for Israel and allies in the Asia-Pacific region to counter China’s influence.

While the aid has been welcomed by NATO, the EU, and Ukraine, the Kremlin criticized it, alleging that it would further harm Ukraine and lead to more casualties.

Despite the aid’s passage, the political landscape in the US remains divided, with Republicans expressing concerns over spending and prioritization. Some Republicans, unhappy with the aid package, are calling for the ousting of House Speaker Mike Johnson.

While the aid is expected to bolster Ukraine’s efforts in the short term, further US support could become uncertain if Republicans gain more power in Congress or win back the White House.

Additionally, the House passed a bill aimed at pressuring the China-based owner of the TikTok social media platform, potentially forcing it to sell its stake or face a ban in the US.