U.S. Senate introduces new bill regarding aid to Ukraine
The U.S. Senate introduced a bill on assistance to Ukraine and Israel (photo: Getty Images)
In the U.S. Senate, a new draft law has been introduced regarding additional funding, which combines allocations for assistance to Ukraine, and Israel, and strengthening the southern border of the U.S., according to the U.S. Senate website and the Whiuste House press service.
According to the text of the proposed legislation, the total amount of funds allocated is $118 billion. Of this, $60 billion is earmarked for assistance to Ukraine, approximately $14 billion for supporting Israel, and $20.23 billion for the protection of U.S. borders.
Within the aid package for Ukraine, it is envisaged that around $20 billion will be directed towards replenishing stockpiles within the U.S., while approximately $14 billion will be allocated for the purchase of new weaponry from American companies for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Furthermore, $14.8 billion is allocated for the continuation of training Ukrainian military personnel, intelligence exchanges, and other support measures. Another $7.85 billion is designated for direct budgetary support to Ukraine, and $1.58 billion is allocated for supporting the development of the Ukrainian economy in priority sectors.
The legislation also includes humanitarian aid amounting to $10 billion for residents of the Gaza Strip, the West Bank of the Jordan River, and Ukraine.
In a special address, the President of the U.S. urged the swift adoption of the new legislation and promised to sign it promptly upon its approval.
"The bipartisan national security agreement would also address two other important priorities. It allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression. As I have said before, if we don’t stop Putin’s appetite for power and control in Ukraine, he won’t limit himself to just Ukraine and the costs for America will rise," stated Biden.
Delay in the financing of aid to Ukraine
Earlier, U.S. President Joe Biden proposed allocating $106 billion to aid Ukraine and Israel, but as of now, the corresponding bill has not been passed.
Debates in the U.S. Congress over further funding for Ukraine aid remain unresolved. Republicans are blocking the issue, insisting on the passage of immigration legislation. In early January, the White House announced that aid to Ukraine would be suspended until Congress approves new funding.
According to The Wall Street Journal, President Biden has agreed to strengthen immigration policies as demanded by Republicans to avoid criticism and ensure assistance to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, The Guardian reports that the U.S. Congress is on the verge of reaching an agreement on the resumption of aid for Ukraine.
