US House approves crucial Ukrainian aid package amid political tensions

CNN reports that American funds and Johnson's leadership position were involved. "He was torn between trying to save his job and do the right thing," said House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, a top Ukraine advocate. "He prayed over it."

Mike Johnson, who became the third-highest-ranking official in the country in October 2023, consistently stated that the US "will not abandon" Ukraine. Yet, for months, he had delayed or resisted the package proposed by the White House, demanding, among other things, a dramatic tightening of immigration policy and a clear strategy from the administration. His change of stance, as analysts suggest, was likely due to increasingly alarming reports on the situation in Ukraine.

Unofficial sources claim that Speaker Johnson was informed by American intelligence of the dire situation in Ukraine, warning that the country could collapse within weeks without US support. Faced with a significant decision, he recommended bringing the package to a vote, which he ultimately did.

"My philosophy is: do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may. If I operated out of fear over motion to vacate, I would never be able to do my job. Look, history judges us for what we do. This is a critical time right now," he stated on the day of the decision to reporters. I think providing aid to Ukraine right now is critically important."

The aid package, valued at about £77 billion, endorsed by President Joe Biden, was finally approved on Saturday with the backing of 210 Democrats and 101 Republicans. It now proceeds to the Senate, where it is expected to receive final approval this week. Then, it will be signed by Biden.