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Local sources from United States: The Associated Press, The New York Times.
UK coverage: Sky News.

In a rare Saturday session, the US House of Representatives swiftly approved a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other US allies. The aid package aims to provide support to Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion, as well as foreign aid to Israel, humanitarian relief to Palestinians in Gaza, and security assistance to Taiwan. The passage of the aid package comes after months of political turmoil and deadlock, with Democrats and Republicans finally banding together to deliver much-needed support to these war-torn allies. The package is expected to pass in the US Senate and be signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The approval of the aid package was met with overwhelming support in the House, with lawmakers from both parties cheering and waving blue-and-yellow flags of Ukraine. Speaker Mike Johnson, who took a political risk to marshal the package to passage, expressed confidence that history would judge their work well. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine expressed gratitude to both parties in the House and personally thanked Speaker Mike Johnson for the decision that keeps history on the right track.

The passage of the aid package marks a turning point in history, as it demonstrates the United States’ commitment to supporting its allies and defending democracy wherever it is at risk. It also reflects the urgent sacrifice made by US lawmakers as allies around the world face wars and threats. The delay in approving the aid package had raised questions about America’s commitment to its allies, but the House’s approval clears the biggest hurdle to President Biden’s funding request.

While the aid for Ukraine received bipartisan support, several progressive Democrats voted against the bill aiding Israel, demanding an end to the bombardment of Gaza. However, the aid package includes several Republican priorities that Democrats are willing to accept, such as sanctions on Iran, Russia, China, and criminal organizations that traffic fentanyl, as well as legislation to require the China-based owner of TikTok to sell its stake within a year or face a ban in the United States.

The aid package not only provides much-needed support to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, but it also sends a strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, halting his advance in Europe. The situation in Ukraine has become increasingly dire, with Russian forces pummeling Ukrainian forces beset by a shortage of troops and ammunition. The aid package will ensure that Ukraine receives the weapons and equipment it urgently needs to defend itself.

The passage of the aid package in the House is a significant step forward, but it still needs to pass in the US Senate. However, given the overwhelming support in the House, passage in the Senate in the coming days is nearly assured. President Biden has already expressed his support for the aid package and urged the Senate to quickly send it to his desk for signing into law.

In conclusion, the approval of the $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan by the US House of Representatives marks a historic moment. It demonstrates bipartisan support for defending democracy and supporting US allies in their time of need. The aid package will provide crucial support to Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion, as well as aid to Israel, humanitarian relief to Palestinians in Gaza, and security assistance to Taiwan. The passage of the aid package is a testament to the determination and resolve of US lawmakers to ensure that the United States remains a leader on the world stage and fulfills its commitments to its allies.