Johnson and Schumer summarize Biden's meeting with congressmen and senators
Biden's meeting with congressmen and senators (Getty Images)
The meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate was highly positive and productive. Republicans and Democrats are on the verge of approving a deal to fund military aid for Ukraine and are working on a comprehensive plan to address the migration crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, according to AP.
House Speaker Mike Johnson described the meeting as productive, emphasizing the need for a significant change in U.S. policy regarding the southern border. During the discussions, he repeatedly highlighted to Biden the necessity of making substantial changes to address the current crisis at the border.
"We have documented 64 cases where the president and various structures made decisions that led to the current catastrophe at the border. This is a national and humanitarian disaster. During the meeting, I emphasized this point," said Johnson.
He noted that the meeting also discussed a comprehensive migration policy, asylum system reform, and conditional early release of illegal immigrants from Mexico.
The Speaker of the House said that while the U.S. understands the need for funding for Ukraine, the current situation at the border is unacceptable. The Commander-in-Chief and the U.S. President must demonstrate strength on the world stage, not weakness. The U.S. cannot continue to ignore the current state of affairs and must insist on prioritizing border issues. He also said he believes that they have reached a certain consensus and are ready to uphold this position going forward.
Meanwhile, Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer referred to Biden's meeting with Congress leaders as very good and positive.
Schumer said that special attention was given to Ukraine. There was a clear understanding among all that if there's no agreement on further support for Ukraine, the consequences for the U.S. worldwide would be catastrophic. He added that he is confident that the deal will be approved soon.
Biden's meeting with leaders and members of Congress
President Biden met with Congress representatives on Wednesday, January 17, to discuss financial and military support for Ukraine. The White House urged lawmakers to promptly approve a $61.3 billion aid package for the country and emphasized the importance of strengthening border protection against illegal migrants from Mexico.
The Senate approved a bipartisan agreement on funding for Ukraine and border security, planning to consider it next week. However, it remains uncertain whether the House of Representatives will approve the document due to the Speaker, Mike Johnson's firm and principled stance.
