In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden has enacted a $95 billion national security package designed to bolster the United States’ international stance and support allied nations. This package sends extensive aid to Ukraine, Israel, and regions within the Indo-Pacific, and includes measures that mandate TikTok to cut ties with its Chinese parent company, as well as the authorization to seize Russian assets to support Ukraine’s military efforts.
The President highlighted the critical nature of these measures in a statement to the press, asserting, “America stands with our friends, we stand up against dictators, and we bow to no one.” He underscored the strategic importance of the aid, stating it was an investment in America’s own security, strengthening allies to create a more secure global environment.
The package was approved following a substantial majority in both the House and the Senate, despite some opposition from conservative corners concerned about domestic priorities. The House votes showed overwhelming bipartisan support for the aid allocations, which include $61 billion for Ukraine, $26.4 billion for Israel and humanitarian aid for Gaza, and $8.1 billion dedicated to security in the Indo-Pacific.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Leader Mitch McConnell praised the bipartisan nature of the legislation. McConnell, although critical of some of Biden’s previous decisions, acknowledged the necessity of supporting international allies in the face of adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. The package also prompted reactions from global leaders, with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing gratitude for the American support, which he described as crucial for peace and democracy.
Critics, however, such as Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), argued that while supporting international allies is important, the United States should also focus on its own border security, which he feels was neglected in this package. President Biden responded to these criticisms by pointing to Congressional inaction on border issues, despite his efforts to negotiate what he described as “the strongest border security bill this country has ever seen.”
