Speaker Mike Johnson reaffirmed his commitment on Wednesday to move forward with a series of foreign aid bills, including support for Ukraine, despite facing staunch opposition from hardliners.
The proposed supplemental package closely mirrors the Senate’s bill, particularly in its allocation of over $9 billion for humanitarian assistance to conflict zones like Gaza, a contentious issue for Democrats.
In total, the package amounts to approximately $95 billion in aid, mirroring the Senate’s allocation. Notably, $10 billion designated for Ukraine’s economic recovery comes in the form of a repayable loan, aimed at bolstering the country’s governmental functions during ongoing conflict.
These loans, totaling around $7.9 billion for Ukraine and $1.6 billion for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia, necessitate an agreement between the president and Kyiv for repayment, with the possibility of debt cancellation, as per insider sources.
The bill allocates $61 billion to Ukraine and regional allies, with $23 billion earmarked for replenishing US stockpiles. Additionally, $26 billion is slated for Israel and $8 billion for the Indo-Pacific region, according to details released by the House Appropriations Committee.
The contentious debate surrounding the bills, coupled with potential attempts by right-wing GOP members to remove Johnson from his position, represents the most significant challenge to his leadership thus far. Despite threats, including Rep. Thomas Massie’s endorsement of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to remove him from speakership, Johnson remains resolute, dismissing any notion of resignation.
In response to queries about the delay in breaking up the foreign aid packages, particularly given Ukraine’s urgent needs, Johnson cited the time-consuming process of consensus-building within the narrowest majority in US history.
Unfazed by threats to his leadership, Johnson maintains a steadfast focus on his legislative agenda, asserting that he does not dwell on motions aimed at his removal.
