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In a significant move underscoring America’s commitment to global security, the US Senate has approved a robust $95 billion foreign aid package destined for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The monumental decision, which President Joe Biden is set to sign into law today, follows months of extensive deliberation and bipartisan cooperation.
This hefty funding package signifies a major leap in US military support for Ukraine, which is mired in conflict. A significant portion of the package – $61 billion – will bolster Ukraine’s armed forces, helping them combat threats and protect the nation’s sovereignty. They are set to receive this lifesaving aid within days, according to the Pentagon.
Upon the bill’s approval, President Biden expressed his satisfaction at the bill’s passage, heralding it as a critical step towards strengthening global security. The new legislation, he believes, upholds the US’s commitment to support its allies against threats posed by terrorist organizations like Hamas or authoritarian leaders like Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin.
Senate Majority Leader, Chuck Schumer mirrored Biden’s sentiments. He quickly lauded the decision as a testament to America’s unwavering resolve to support the global community.
Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, welcomed the aid package, hailing it as reinforcement of America’s role as a bedrock of democracy and leader of the free world. Despite opposition from a handful of Senate Republicans and two Democrats, the bill passed an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 79-18.
One opposing voice, Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville, expressed concern that this influx of financial support might only prolong the conflict and result in more loss of life.
Adding to this massive monetary commitment, the package also pledges $26.4 billion to Israel for military and humanitarian support. Furthermore, allies in the Asia-Pacific region, including Taiwan, will receive $8.1 billion to counter the perceived threats from communist China.
As a surprise addition, the package contains a provision potentially leading to a nationwide ban on TikTok, the popular social media service, unless its parent company, ByteDance, finds a US-approved buyer in nine months.
Information Box:
– Aid Package: $95 billion
– Aid for Ukraine: $61 billion
– Aid for Israel: $26.4 billion
– Aid for Taiwan and other Asia-Pacific allies: $8.1 billion
– Prospective TikTok ban: Within nine months if parent company, ByteDance, does not sell to a US-approved buyer
Reference 1: Anthony Zurcher, BBC News, Washington
Reference 2: Times of Israel
Reference 3: Aljazeera: Russia-Ukraine war updates: Moscow threatens to target ‘Western weapons’
Reference 4: NPR: Senate overwhelmingly passes aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan with bipartisan vote