House Set for Vote on Ukraine Aid and Russia Sanctions Bill

Supporters of legislation providing additional aid to Ukraine and imposing new sanctions on Russia reached a critical threshold, allowing them to bypass Republican leadership and force a House floor vote in the coming weeks, Kevin Freking and Stephen Groves reported for the Associated Press (AP).

The vote is expected to place lawmakers publicly on record regarding continued US support for Ukraine. (Photo: Міністерство оборони України  Facebook)

The bill seeks to strengthen US support for Ukraine by authorizing more than $1 billion in security assistance and making another $8 billion available through loans. Backers of the measure say it would help deter Russia and strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position.

The effort gained 218 signatures through a discharge petition led by Gregory Meeks, enough to compel a House vote.

The petition was signed by 215 Democrats and two Republicans — Don Bacon and Brian Fitzpatrick.

The final signature reportedly came from Rep. Kevin Kiley of California.

Although the measure faces uncertain prospects in becoming law, the vote is expected to place lawmakers publicly on record regarding continued US support for Ukraine.