US House approves aid deal for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan

The House of Representatives held a bipartisan vote on a $95bn legislative package, detailing aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. 210 Democrats and 101 Republicans joined to support Ukraine, with 112 Republicans being against. For Israel, 365 voted in favor and only 57 against; while the Indo-Pacific bill that details aid for Taiwan received minimal resistance with a vote of 385-34.

Ukraine will be provided with $61bn of military assistance and security in the war against Russia. Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, emphasizes the importance of this aid, “The vital US aid bill passed today by the House will keep the war from expanding, save thousands and thousands of lives, and help both of our nations to become stronger.” 

Ukraine will also be receiving $9bn that will be written off as a “forgivable loan” - a term used to refer to economic funds that do not need to be repaid.

Listed in the bill as well is Taiwan who will be receiving more than $8bn to protect against Chinese Aggression, $3.3bn for submarines, and $2bn focused on defense articles and services. Security measures serve as the top priority for Taiwan in light of the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act this month. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan thanks the US Congress and the funds will strengthen the relationship between the countries.

On the other hand, Israel is given $26bn, and $9bn for humanitarian assistance in the area. United States President Joe Biden says in a statement, “This package will deliver critical support to Israel and Ukraine; provide desperately needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, Sudan, Haiti and other locations impacted by conflicts and natural disasters around the world; and bolster security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.”

He continues, “It comes at a moment of grave urgency, with Israel facing unprecedented attacks from Iran, and Ukraine under continued bombardment from Russia.