The U.S. House of Representatives approved a security package by a vote of 226-195, authorizing new military aid for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. The measure, which includes over $1.5 billion in security assistance and $8 billion in direct loans, now heads to the Senate after facing significant opposition from White House officials.
The legislation, introduced by Representative Gregory W. Meeks of New York and bypassed by Republican leadership earlier this year through a discharge petition, was supported by 18 Republicans who defied President Donald Trump’s stance. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) was the sole Democrat to vote against it. House GOP leaders and most Republicans opposed the bill amid heightened Russian missile and drone strikes as the conflict enters its fifth year.
The White House stated the measure would undermine Trump’s goal of resolving the prolonged conflict, warning that mandatory sanctions “plunge the global economy into chaos.” A White House document described the legislation as seeking to “tie the President’s hands” by mandating U.S. responses to the Russia-Ukraine war while adding unfunded authorizations.
The bill targets Russian energy profits and entities supporting sanctioned Russian operations, aligning with U.S. efforts to reinforce Ukraine’s defenses. Backers emphasized that most funding consists of direct loans—consistent with former President Trump’s preference for such arrangements over security assistance requiring repayment. The vote marks the first significant financial support for Ukraine in over two years.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) criticized the bill as sending “over $9 billion of your dollars overseas,” while Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) called it “unbelievable.” Meeks stated the measure signals U.S. commitment to Ukraine’s democracy and freedom until Vladimir Putin is held accountable under international law.