Biden passes budget bill without aid to Ukraine

US President Joe Biden (Photo: EPA).

President Joe Biden signed a temporary spending bill on November 16 after it was passed by the Senate a day earlier. The budget allocation is limited, only able to help the US avoid a government shutdown until early 2024 and will not include an aid package for Ukraine.

The bill was introduced by the new House Speaker, Mike Johnson, a Republican. Despite opposition from his own conservative base, Johnson relied on Democratic support to push the bill through the House and win the vote.

The bill does not include spending on hot button issues like abortion, border security, or foreign aid, whether for Ukraine, Israel, or any other country. Instead, it focuses on keeping the U.S. government running.

The two-tiered strategy would provide operating funding in two installments, through January 19 and February 2. Previously, the government shutdown was due to end on November 17, when the 47-day “continuing resolution” that began on September 30 ended.

"Thanks to bipartisan cooperation, we are continuing to operate the government without any cuts that would jeopardize important missions and plans. This is a great result for the American people," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said after the vote.

The issue of aid to Ukraine has been a major source of disagreement in American politics in recent times. The conflict even led to the removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in September.

Some Republicans have called for a review of the aid to Ukraine, arguing that it lacks transparency and that the US government should focus on other national priorities rather than supporting Kiev at this time.

Meanwhile, senior US officials warn that without Washington's help, Kiev could lose its conflict with Moscow.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/ong-biden-thong-qua-du-luat-ngan-sach-khong-co-vien-tro-cho-ukraine-20231117212213209.htm