Republican and Democrat lawmakers on Capitol Hill are moving to send more aid to Ukraine — a lot more. Pro-Ukraine senators said the effort would allow the U.S. to send enough resources and support to last the war-torn country through the 2024 U.S. election, and it could cost $50 billion to $100 billion.
The new proposal would dwarf President Biden’s August request for $24 billion in additional Ukraine aid. Lawmakers fighting for the expanded funding said winning votes for one big package would be easier than several smaller ones.
Proponents also say a significant package would show the world America’s commitment to Ukraine regardless of the upheaval in Congress.
However, some Republican lawmakers are becoming increasingly hesitant to send more aid to Ukraine. Congress has already approved more than $100 billion in military, economic and humanitarian aid since the start of the Russian invasion. That funding is the money that Republicans want to see accounted for.
According to a recent Reuters poll, Americans’ support for sending resources to Ukraine is fading. In May, a Reuters poll showed 46% of respondents supported sending aid, compared to the most recent poll showing support among respondents at 41%.
Oct. 2, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed what has been described as “Western fatigue” over Ukraine funding and support.
“There is a very strong international coalition behind Ukraine.” Jean-Pierre said. “And if Putin thinks he can outlast us, he’s wrong. He’s wrong, and so, we will have another package of aid for Ukraine soon to signal our continued support for the brave people of Ukraine.”
Despite some Republicans balking at sending more aid, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said major funding for Ukraine will get passed in the Senate.
“…I am not worried about the next six weeks; I am worried about next year,” Graham said on CBS “Face the Nation.” “We will produce in the United States Senate Ukraine funding $60 or $70 billion, not $24 [billion] to get them through next year.”
Any aid to Ukraine would likely have to be voted on after the Senate returns from recess on Oct. 16. But also on the docket is a federal spending budget that has to be passed by Nov. 17 to avoid a government shutdown.
There may also be a bill introduced to send aid to Israel. If the Ukraine package passes the Senate, it’s uncertain whether it will get passed by a Republican-controlled House. That chamber is also getting itself in order for a busy session, beginning with electing a new speaker.
