:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/OFGVHC3OLQAIKNMAOTVA6RMU7A.jpg "The US Senate approved the military aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan valued at USD 95 billion")
The US Senate approved a massive military and economic aid package valued at $95 billion for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan on Tuesday after months of intense negotiations. The aid plan, which includes funds for humanitarian assistance for Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti, received broad support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The Democratic-controlled Senate passed the package with bipartisan support in a 79-18 vote, with leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell calling it a crucial moment for the US and the free world. The aid package now awaits President Biden’s signature, who has pledged to begin sending weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week to combat Russian aggression.
The aid plan also grants Biden the authority to seize and sell Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s reconstruction, with support from other G7 countries. This marks the first aid package approved for Ukraine in nearly a year and a half, revealing divisions in Congress between Democrats, Republicans, and supporters of former President Donald Trump.
In addition to aid for Ukraine, the package includes $13 billion in military assistance for Israel, $8 billion to support Taiwan against Chinese threats, and a provision to ban the TikTok app unless it cuts ties with China. The US accuses TikTok of allowing Beijing to spy on its American users.
The approval of the aid package signals a strong commitment from the US to support its allies and promote democracy and freedom in the face of global challenges. The aid will provide critical support to Ukraine and other vulnerable populations while reinforcing US security interests in the region.