House Speaker Mike Johnson to Push for Wartime Aid for Israel and Ukraine

On Sunday, House Speaker Mike Johnson revealed his intention to push for crucial aid to Israel and Ukraine. In a bid to secure approval for a comprehensive national security package, the Speaker faces the challenging task of navigating the divided support within the Republican Party for aiding Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion.

Support for U.S. Allies

The $95 billion supplementary package, which has been pending for two months, aims to provide support to U.S. allies, humanitarian aid for civilians in Ukraine and Gaza, and funding to replenish U.S. weapons provided to Taiwan. The Speaker's efforts come as Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel early Sunday added further pressure, underscoring the urgency of approving the funding. Johnson emphasized the necessity of standing in solidarity with Israel, vowing to advance the aid this week.

Bipartisan Efforts and Bipartisan Support

Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Mike Turner, expressed confidence in a potential path for funding for Israel, Ukraine, and allies in Asia to be presented on the House floor this week. While Johnson has shown support for structuring some of the funding for Kyiv as loans, the only package with widespread bipartisan approval in Congress is the Senate-passed bill, which includes approximately $60 billion for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel.

Pressure and Calls for Action

The White House has urged the Speaker to promptly bring the Senate-passed package to the House floor, emphasizing the pressing threat faced by Ukraine and Israel. As Johnson seeks avenues to advance the funding for Ukraine, he has engaged in discussions with both the White House and former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on Johnson, with conservatives expressing discontent over his leadership and calling for his removal from the speaker's office.

Challenges and Urgency

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the dwindling resources of Kyiv's troops, as well as Russia's escalating aggression amid a spring and summer offensive. Amid the challenging dynamic, Johnson is endeavoring to construct a package that secures policy wins for Republicans while maintaining Democratic support. Despite progressive Democrats' reservations about the aid to Israel, the majority of House Democrats have rallied behind the Senate-passed package, emphasizing the imperative nature of the aid's swift delivery.