Republican lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives said they would move forward on a new package of military aid to Israel that leaves out more assistance for Ukraine.
The top Republican in the House, Mike Johnson, unveiled the plan in a letter to Republican colleagues on February 3. The proposal sets up a legislative clash with a competing measure being finalized in the Senate. That measure pairs major changes to U.S. immigration policies with a wider package of military aid for both Israel and Ukraine.
President Joe Biden has pleaded with lawmakers to authorize new Ukraine aid, while Donald Trump, the likely Republican nominee for the November presidential election, has signaled opposition.
According to a report, House Republicans will move forward with a $17.6 billion package that provides military aid to Israel and replenish U.S. weapons, but leaves out more help for Ukraine, underscoring the challenges facing supporters of a comprehensive national security package that would also include billions of dollars for immigration enforcement.
The move gives Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans the chance to show support for Israel even though there is little chance the Senate will go along. Meanwhile, text of a broader Senate compromise is expected to be released this weekend and a key test vote on that package will be held during the week.
Johnson said that Senate leadership is aware that by failing to include the House in their negotiations, they have eliminated the ability for swift consideration of any legislation.
