WASHINGTON, D.C. — Members of Congress are split over President Joe Biden’s request for $105 billion in new military aid for crises around the world, including the wars in Ukraine and Israel. The divisions, though, don’t fall along party lines.

What You Need To Know

  • More than two weeks after Hamas’ invasion, Congress is largely unified in supporting Israel, but support for Ukraine is less certain

  • Some Republicans are calling to separate the funds into two distinct aid packages

  • Ohio Democratic House members said it was in America’s interest to help both countries

More than two weeks after Hamas’ invasion, Congress is largely unified in supporting Israel. However, support for Ukraine is less certain, as some right-wing Republicans grow increasingly wary of sending more aid to Kyiv.

Ohio House members like Rep. Jim Jordan have made no secret of opposing it.

“I do think it’s important you have a special inspector general for any Ukraine funding,” Jordan said.

Some Republicans are calling to separate the funds into two distinct aid packages. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, circulated a memo on Monday arguing the wars in each country are inherently different and that supporting the war in Ukraine does not help the U.S.

Some Ohio Republicans disagree, arguing the U.S. must preserve international security.

“This is not just an issue of Ukraine or not Ukraine. This is an issue of Russia is our adversary and they intend to do our allies harm,” said Rep. Mike Turner, R-Ohio.

Ohio Democratic House members said it was in America’s interest to help both countries.

“We are the world’s indispensable nation and this is a moment that requires serious and strong leadership, and that means being there, showing our support for our global allies, including Ukraine and Israel,” said Rep. Greg Landsman, D-Ohio.

The funding debate comes as House Republicans remain at an impasse over choosing a new speaker. Until then, no aid can be appropriated by Congress.

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