Russian Warning After US DPR Approves Military Aid Package to Ukraine
The United States House of Representatives (US DPR) approved a bill regarding security assistance to Ukraine. Russia warned the aid package would lead to more casualties in Ukraine.
Reported by Reuters, Sunday (21/4/2024) the draft law is now being submitted to the Senate, which has a majority of Democratic Party members. US leaders from Democratic President Joe Biden to top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell have urged Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to vote on the proposal.
The unusual four-bill package also includes funding for Israel, security assistance for Taiwan and its allies in the Indo-Pacific. As well as actions that include sanctions, threats to ban the Chinese-owned TikTok social media app, and the potential transfer of confiscated Russian assets, to Ukraine.
"The world is watching what Congress does", the White House said in a statement on Friday. "Passing this legislation would send a powerful message about the strength of American leadership at a crucial time. The administration urges both chambers of Congress to immediately send this additional funding package to the president's desk."
Some hard-line Republicans have voiced strong opposition to further aid to Ukraine. Some argue that the US is unable to finance it considering the country's debt has increased by USD 34 trillion.
The bill provides USD 60.84 billion to address the conflict in Ukraine, including USD 23 billion to replenish US weapons, supplies and facilities; USD 26 billion for Israel, including USD 9.1 billion for humanitarian needs, and USD 8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific.
Ukraine Welcomes
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the US House of Representatives vote. This vote is known to approve an aid package to Ukraine.
"The critical US aid bill passed today by the House of Representatives will prevent widespread war, save thousands of lives, and help both countries become stronger," Zelensky wrote on social media, reported by AFP, Sunday (21/4).
Zelensky said he hoped the bill would also be supported by the Senate. Later, the bill will also be sent to US President Joe Biden.
"We hope the bill will be supported in the Senate and sent to President Biden's desk," he added. "Thank you, America!"
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