The U.S. House of Representatives approved a significant aid package for Ukraine with a 226-195 vote, showcasing a bipartisan rift from GOP leadership on dealing with the conflict in Eastern Europe. The decision on Thursday provides Ukraine with over $1 billion for security and reconstruction. It also authorizes defense loans and enforces new sanctions on Russia, according to the Associated Press.
The vote saw support from nearly all Democrats and nearly 20 Republican members who diverged from the party line. Among the 18 Republicans backing the measure were:
- Don Bacon from Nebraska
- Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania
- Andrew Garbarino from New York
- Carlos Gimenez from Florida
- Rob Bresnahan from Pennsylvania
- Nick LaLota from New York
- Mike Lawler from New York
- Michael McCaul from Texas
- Mike Carey from Ohio
- Jeff Hurd from Colorado
- David Joyce from Ohio
- Jen Kiggans from Virginia
- Max Miller from Ohio
- Greg Murphy from North Carolina
- Dan Newhouse from Washington
- Glenn Thompson from Pennsylvania
- Mike Turner from Ohio
- Joe Wilson from South Carolina
This coalition of members joined Democrats to overcome the resistance from many Republicans who opposed the bill. The result highlights ongoing tensions within the Republican Party over foreign aid policies, particularly regarding support for Ukraine versus a preference for a more isolationist approach.
Following the House approval, the bill moves to the Senate. Its fate there depends on further partisan discussions and potential presidential input.
This passage follows another moment of dissonance within the Republican ranks. Earlier, the House had approved an Iran War Powers Resolution, indicating a shift in party dynamics.