United States President Joe Biden has praised the Senate for passing a $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan on Wednesday, February 14, saying it sends a clear message to the world that America stands up for freedom and can be trusted and relied on.
The aid package, which passed with bipartisan support by a vote of 70-29, includes $60.06 billion to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invasion, $14.1 billion in security assistance for Israel, $9.15 billion in humanitarian assistance for civilians affected by conflicts in Gaza, the West Bank, Ukraine and other regions, and $4.83 billion to support allies in the Indo-Pacific and deter China’s aggression.
Biden said the bill is a “significant step forward” after months of delays and political divisions in the Republican Party over the role of the U.S. abroad. He urged the House of Representatives, where the bill faces an uncertain fate due to opposition from some hardline Republicans aligned with former President Donald Trump, to act with urgency and pass the bill without further delay.
“We cannot afford to wait any longer,” Biden said in a statement. “Supporting this bill is standing up to Putin. Opposing it is playing into Putin’s hands. History is watching.”
Biden also lashed out at Trump, who on Saturday said he once warned he would allow Russia to do whatever it wants to NATO member nations that are “delinquent” in devoting 2% of their gross domestic product to defense. Biden said Trump’s remarks show he looks at the U.S. alliances as a “burden” and does not understand the importance of American leadership in the world.
“When America gives its word, it means something,” Biden said. “Donald Trump looks at this as if it’s a burden.”
Biden said the U.S. has rallied a coalition of more than 50 countries to support the defense of Ukraine, which is facing critical shortages of weapons and ammunition on the battlefield. He said the U.S. will also coordinate with its NATO allies to ensure a strong, united response that deters any aggression against the alliance.
“Tonight, Jill and I are praying for the brave and proud people of Ukraine,” Biden said.
The Senate-passed bill is based on a statement Biden made on his X handle on Wednesday, February 14, in which he said: “This bipartisan Senate bill sends a clear message to Ukrainians, to our partners, and to our Allies around the world: America can be trusted. America can be relied on. America stands up for freedom.”
