Biden signs $95 billion aid package and calls for TikTok ban or sale.
President Joe Biden took immediate action on Wednesday by signing a $95 billion war aid measure that includes crucial assistance for various regions in need, including Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and other global hot spots. The long-awaited announcement marked the end of a challenging battle with Republicans in Congress to provide essential aid to Ukraine, with Biden ensuring that the shipment of U.S. weaponry would start reaching Ukraine within hours.
Despite the delay caused by the funding impasse, the administration is determined to support Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion. The initial $1 billion military aid installment approved by Biden is part of a larger allocation of approximately $61 billion earmarked for Ukraine. This package includes vital air defense capabilities, artillery rounds, armored vehicles, and other weaponry to bolster Ukrainian forces, which have faced numerous setbacks as Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to make advances.
In a significant development, Ukraine has begun deploying long-range ballistic missiles provided covertly by the United States, striking a Russian military airfield in Crimea and targeting Russian forces in occupied territories. The addition of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) in the new military package further enhances Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
Despite these immediate support measures, the road to recovery for Ukraine may be challenging after months of losses and extensive damage to its infrastructure. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned that even with new aid flows, Russia could continue to make tactical gains in the coming weeks, underscoring the importance of sustained support for Ukraine.
In addition to aid for Ukraine, the bill also includes around $26 billion in assistance for Israel and approximately $1 billion in humanitarian relief for Palestinians in Gaza amid ongoing conflicts in the region. Biden stressed the necessity of ensuring that the humanitarian aid reaches Palestinians in Gaza without delays.
The aid package faced delays as some Republican members, including Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie, raised objections to providing further assistance to Ukraine. Former President Donald Trump, while initially critical of European allies for not doing enough for Ukraine, acknowledged the importance of supporting Ukraine’s survival.
The efforts to secure additional funding for Ukraine began months earlier, with Biden making a public appeal to Congress following a trip to Tel Aviv. Despite challenges from far-right Republicans opposing additional aid, Biden and White House officials highlighted the stakes for Europe should Ukraine fall to Russia.
Overcoming obstacles in negotiations, Biden emphasized the significance of continued discussions and collaborative efforts to secure aid for Ukraine. The administration worked to address concerns raised by House Speaker Mike Johnson and other dissenting members, aiming to build consensus on the aid package.
While the aid package provides critical support to Ukrainian forces, experts caution that sustained assistance will be necessary to confront Russia in the long term. Realistic goals moving forward include preventing the loss of major cities, slowing Russia’s advances, and equipping Ukraine with the necessary resources to defend itself.
Despite its limitations, the aid package represents a crucial step in supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. As the situation continues to evolve, ongoing international support will be vital in ensuring Ukraine’s security and stability.
