In a recent development, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has informed Republican senators to anticipate the House’s delivery of a legislative package aimed at supporting Ukraine. However, he highlighted that the House’s version would significantly diverge from the $95 billion foreign aid package previously approved by the Senate.
During a question-and-answer session at the Senate Republican retreat held at the Library of Congress, Johnson addressed the concerns of GOP senators regarding Ukraine funding. He proposed that the House’s aid package might take the form of a loan or a lend-lease program, thereby alleviating the financial burden on U.S. taxpayers by ensuring some form of return on the investment.
Furthermore, Johnson discussed the possibility of incorporating measures akin to the REPO for Ukrainians Act, introduced by Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas). This act would allow for the seizure of Russian sovereign assets, with the proceeds from the liquidation of these assets being funneled into a fund to support Ukraine.
Despite these discussions, Johnson did not confirm whether the proposed aid package would include stringent border security reforms, such as the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which is likely to face resistance from Senate Democrats.
The conversation around aid for Ukraine gained momentum following pressure from Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on Johnson to consider the Senate’s comprehensive package, which includes support for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), who supported the Senate’s emergency foreign aid package, expressed optimism about the House’s approach, particularly the idea of seizing $300 billion in Russian assets to aid Ukraine. He also commended the suggestion of a lend-lease program, reminiscent of the strategy employed by President Franklin Roosevelt during World War II to support Britain and other allies.
Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) shared his positive outlook, noting Johnson’s clear intention to assist Ukraine through a lend-lease program and the seizure of Russian assets to establish a Ukraine support fund.
Johnson, speaking at the House Republican retreat in West Virginia, reiterated his commitment to aiding Ukraine and preventing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggression from going unchecked. He emphasized the moral dichotomy in the situation, portraying Ukraine as the victim of unjust aggression.
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) praised the lend-lease program as an elegant solution, especially when combined with the REPO Act, to support Ukraine without outright grants. He highlighted the loan’s waivable nature and the absence of interest charges, making it a more palatable option for supporting Ukraine.
Despite the enthusiasm for a loan-based aid approach, some senators, including Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), expressed concerns about the potential financial strain on Ukraine. Collins emphasized the need for swift action on the aid package to prevent further setbacks for Ukrainian forces.
As discussions continue, Johnson assured that the House’s priority is to pass regular appropriations bills before addressing the emergency foreign aid package for Ukraine. He acknowledged the urgency of the situation but stressed the importance of adhering to the legislative process to ensure effective governance and support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.