May 19, 2022

Congress Passes Ukraine Supplemental

Washington, DC – The US Senate voted 86-11 today (May 19) to approve an additional $40 billion in supplemental aid for Ukraine. The package was passed by the House of Representatives earlier this month.

President Biden, in a statement, applauded the Congress for sending a clear bipartisan message to the world that the American people stand together with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their democracy and freedom.

“The resources that I requested will allow us to send even more weapons and ammunition to Ukraine, replenish our own stockpile, and support US troops stationed on NATO territory. And, I want to thank Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, Leader McConnell, and Leader McCarthy for moving this bill quickly to ensure there is no lapse in funding for these important needs. Together with the contributions of our Allies and partners, we will keep security, economic, food, and humanitarian assistance flowing to Ukraine, across the region, and around the world, and further strengthen Ukraine — both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table.”

The Biden Administration has provided a historic amount of security assistance to Ukraine to date. This package will enable the continuous delivery of additional weapons and equipment that Congress has authorized. President Biden said he is announcing another package of security assistance that will provide “additional artillery, radars, and other equipment to Ukraine, which they are already using so effectively on the battlefield. These weapons and equipment will go directly to the front lines of freedom in Ukraine, and reiterate our strong support for the brave people of Ukraine as they defend their country against Russia’s ongoing aggression.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted, “I praise the US Senate’s approval of the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2022. $ 40 billion is a significant US contribution to the restoration of peace and security in Ukraine, Europe and the world. We look forward to the signing of the law by @POTUS”

Senator Mazie Hirono tweeted that she was glad the Senate passed much-needed aid for the people of Ukraine. “But it shouldn’t have taken this long. Republicans need to stop playing politics with what should be an unwavering commitment to help Ukraine fight back against Putin’s reckless and inhumane war.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a tweet, “Today, the Senate passed more emergency military, economic, and humanitarian aid for Ukraine at President Biden’s request. Now more help is on the way as we continue to stand with the Ukrainian people.”

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