The House of Representatives has approved sending $60 billion in aid to Ukraine to assist in its defense against Russia’s invasion. The aid package passed with bipartisan support, with more Democrats voting in favor than Republicans. During the vote, Democrats began passing around Ukrainian flags, which led to an admonishment from the lawmaker presiding over the vote for violating House protocol. The vote was a decisive victory for Speaker Mike Johnson, whose majority is already slim.
Lawmakers were in session on a rare Saturday working to pass Johnson’s $95 billion foreign aid plan, which also includes aid for Israel, the Indo-Pacific, and other national security measures. The close margins within the GOP alone show the division over Ukraine funding among Republicans, with some skeptical about continued U.S. financial involvement. The vote highlighted the strong stance within the GOP that Ukraine’s victory is crucial in preventing a wider conflict between NATO and Russia. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene’s proposal to strip funding related to Ukraine from the bill failed on Saturday.
Johnson, who was initially skeptical about Ukraine aid, warned earlier in the week about the risk of Vladimir Putin forming a second “axis of evil” with Iran and China and potentially causing a wider conflict in Europe. However, his support for foreign aid, particularly for Ukraine, has led to a backlash within his party. Greene filed a resolution to oust Johnson last month, with two more House Republicans formally backing her this week. Despite potential consequences, Johnson pushed for the aid package, saying it was necessary to support Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Tensions erupted on the House floor as conservatives confronted Johnson on his foreign aid plan. Greene accused Johnson of betraying his party by supporting the foreign aid package and highlighted the division within the Republican Party over the issue. Despite the risk of losing his position as Speaker, Johnson was praised for doing what was perceived as the right thing amid the growing crisis in Ukraine. While Greene’s resolution to oust Johnson may not be put up for a vote unless filed as privileged, some Democrats have indicated openness to helping save his job if he puts the Ukraine aid bill on the House floor.
Overall, the vote on the foreign aid package highlighted the intense debate within Congress over supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. With concerns about a broader conflict and the strategic implications of Russian aggression, lawmakers are divided on the best course of action. Johnson’s leadership is being challenged by some within his party who oppose continued financial involvement in Ukraine, but he remains steadfast in his support for the aid package. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for U.S. foreign policy and international relations.
