The US House of Representatives has approved a $60.8bn (£49bn) aid package for Ukraine, ending months of deadlock over renewed American support for the country’s efforts to defend against Russia’s invasion. The bill was passed with bipartisan support, with representatives waving small Ukrainian flags as it became clear that the package would be approved. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the decision, stating that it would keep history on the right track and protect democracy and freedom. The package is now set to go before the US Senate, where it is expected to be passed on Tuesday, and then to President Joe Biden for his signature.
The impact of the delay in passing this aid package has been significant, with more than 480 days having passed since Congress last approved a bill allowing for American weapons to be sent to Ukraine. The passage of the bill is expected to allow American factories to resume production of weapons for Ukraine and for American stockpiles to be released to the country. Moscow has criticized the bill, claiming that it will further ruin Ukraine and result in more deaths.
The aid package includes funding for military and humanitarian assistance and economic support for Ukraine. It is intended to help Ukraine fend off Russia’s invasion and protect its sovereignty. The package was blocked for months by a group of Republicans who questioned the value of American involvement in a faraway war and called for a focus on domestic issues such as crime and the southern border. However, a majority of politicians disagreed with this view and believed that it was important for America to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion.
The vote to approve the aid package was passed with 311 votes in favor and 112 votes against, with one vote present. The chair of the House of Representatives reminded members to observe proper decorum and noted that flag waving on the floor was inappropriate. The package is expected to be a significant boost for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
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