US Senators Scramble to Rescue Ukraine and Israel Aid as Bipartisan Border Deal Crumbles

US lawmakers are working urgently to salvage a military aid package for Ukraine and Israel after the Senate rejected a bipartisan border deal that had bundled US-Mexico border restrictions with aid to the two nations.

The four-month-in-the-making pact collapsed after former President Donald Trump urged Republicans to block it, with some Republicans arguing that its immigration reforms fell short, while some Democrats believed they went too far.

Senators are now attempting to craft a new version of the legislation, with Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer proposing a backup bill that retains foreign aid while eliminating immigration measures. The $96 billion package includes substantial support for Ukraine and Israel, humanitarian aid, and funding for US operations in strategic regions. The Senate adjourned until Thursday as negotiations continue over the revised package.

Since December, the approval of additional US military aid to Ukraine has been in limbo due to Congressional disagreements. Republicans insisted on linking more aid to Ukraine with additional measures to address the border crisis, leading to the formulation of a bipartisan bill that has now been rejected.

The US stands as the largest provider of aid to Ukraine, and concerns have been raised about the impact on Ukraine’s war effort and public finances if further Western aid is not approved. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, while in Brussels for talks with NATO, expressed confidence that the US could and would provide the necessary aid despite Congressional deliberations. Efforts by House Republicans to separate Israel aid into a distinct package faced rejection from Democrats on Tuesday.