Biden signs government funding bill with Ukraine aid
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U.S. president Joe Biden signs the “Consolidated Appropriations Act (2022”) in Washington’s Indian Treaty Room, Washington, on March 15, 20, 2022.
Leah Millis | Reuters
President Joe Biden has signed Tuesday’s $1.5 trillion bill, which funds federal operations up to September. In addition, it sends billions in aid for Ukraine during the fight against Russian aggression.
Washington must approve a spending plan before the clock ends to avoid government shutdown.
This bill contains $13.6 billion to support Ukraine. It fits within a larger U.S. effort that aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defense, undermine Russia’s economy, and aid civilians who have been displaced from the conflict. This money will be used to fund military equipment, training and aid for Ukrainian refugees both inside the country as well as in neighbouring countries.
Biden stated Tuesday that “we’re moving further in support of the brave peoples of Ukraine as they defend it,” before signing the bill. Biden stated that the U.S. would be better positioned to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of the Ukrainian population.
Biden signed this bill soon after White House. announced he would travel to Brussels this monthFor an exceptional summit on Russia’s attack against Ukraine. He approved the funding shortly before Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukraine President) addressed the U.S. Congress.
Although the bill contains critical funding to support U.S. efforts against Ukraine, it does not eliminate some potential risks for the U.S. right now. A shutdown could damage the economy and cause many federal workers to lose their jobs temporarily.
After Congress had passed several temporary plans in recent months to maintain power, the bill will provide enough funds to pay for federal spending until Sept. 30, after Congress has approved the legislation.
Due to the upcoming midterm elections, lawmakers will be required to approve a new funding bill.
It did not contain $15.6 Billion in supplemental coronavirus relief, which was initially incorporated into the funding legislation. White House has warned its efforts to curb and treat infections will sufferIf Congress doesn’t approve additional aid.
While more money for pandemic relief could be passed by the Democratic-controlled House, it is likely that Senate Republicans will block Biden from signing it.
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