Key facts
- US House passed the Ukraine Support Act with 226 votes to 195.
- The act authorizes over $1 billion in aid for Ukraine and up to $8 billion in direct loans.
- New sanctions and export controls on Russia are included.
- 18 Republicans and one independent joined Democrats to pass the bill.
- The legislation faces an uncertain future in the Senate and a potential veto from President Donald Trump.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Ukraine Support Act on Thursday, authorizing over $1 billion in aid for Ukraine and imposing new sanctions on Russia. The vote, which passed 226 to 195, saw 18 Republicans and one independent join Democrats, signaling a potential shift in Republican party alignment regarding foreign policy and challenging President Donald Trump's influence. The legislation includes measures for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction, direct loans, and sanctions on Russian financial institutions, oil, mining, and officials. This action follows a previous bipartisan vote to restrict military engagement with Iran. However, the bill's future is uncertain as it must pass the Senate, where Republican leaders have awaited Trump's guidance on Russia sanctions, and it faces a potential veto from Trump. Aid to Ukraine has slowed recently, despite ongoing conflict and stalled peace talks. The European Union also recently agreed to open accession talks with Ukraine and approved a significant loan package.