House passes bill to provide more Ukraine aid and impose new sanctions on Russia
By — Kevin Freking, Associated Press Kevin Freking, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/house-passes-bill-to-provide-more-ukraine-aid-and-impose-new-sanctions-on-russia Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter House passes bill to provide more Ukraine aid and impose new sanctions on Russia Politics Jun 4, 2026 8:36 PM EDT WASHINGTON (AP) — The House passed legislation Thursday that would aid Ukraine and sanction key segments of the Russian economy, overriding objections from Republican leaders who warned the bill would undermine negotiations designed to achieve a comparable but stronger result. WATCH: As Russia pounds Ukrainian cities, Kyiv tries to turn the tide with battlefront innovation The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., seeks to cement U.S. assistance for Ukraine by providing more than $1 billion in security and reconstruction aid. It would make another $8 billion available for Ukraine's defense through loans. The 226-195 vote is a sign of impatience with President Donald Trump's approach to the war and represents the House's second major foreign policy break with Trump this week. The day before, the House, for the first time, approved a war powers resolution aimed at halting U.S. military action against Iran. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Supporters were able to force action on the Ukraine bill by gathering 218 signatures on a discharge petition, a legislative tool that allows a majority of the House to effectively bypass leadership. Once rarely successful, House members have used the petition tool this Congress to pass bills on releasing the government's files on Jeffrey Epstein and to extend health care subsidies to many of those who get health coverage through the Affordable Care Act, though the latter measure faltered in the Senate. Meeks said the question before the House was simple. Would it help Ukraine negotiate from a position of strength or help Russia outlast American resolve? "We all want this war to end," Meeks said. "The question is how. Will we abandon Ukraine and force it into a terrible deal? That is what Vladimir Putin is counting on. Or will this body live up to the commitments we've made since the start of this war?" The vast majority of Republicans opposed the measure. Rep. French Hill, the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said he is a steadfast supporter of Ukraine. However, the Arkansas Republican said the House was confronted with a flawed, outdated measure that actually cuts funding for the Ukraine security assistance initiative compared to what Congress had agreed to as part of this year's defense policy. Another section could lead to a decrease in NATO spending, he warned. Rep. Brian Mast, the chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, said he believed the bill was "a cudgel to fight
Ukraines resilience against Russian aggression is a beacon of hope. Supporting Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Russia is a crucial step towards protecting global peace and promoting democracy. Lets stand together for a safer world.
While I appreciate the sentiment, its worth considering the potential long-term consequences of increased sanctions on Russia. History shows that economic pressures can sometimes backfire, leading to more aggressive behavior. Its crucial to approach such actions carefully, ensuring they align with broader strategic goals and dont inadvertently strain international cooperation.
Absolutely, the resilience of Ukraine is a testament to its peoples strength. Supporting them and imposing sanctions on Russia is vital for peace and democracy. Lets continue to stand united in this global effort.
While I support increased aid and sanctions, history warns us that economic pressures can escalate tensions. A balanced approach might yield better, long-term results.
While Ukraines resilience is inspiring, we must critically assess the effectiveness of sanctions and aid. Diplomatic solutions often offer more sustainable long-term benefits. Lets support Ukraine while exploring comprehensive approaches to peace and security.
Interesting perspective. While increased sanctions might seem like a straightforward solution, history suggests they can sometimes backfire, potentially strengthening Russias resolve. Its crucial to consider all long-term implications.
Interesting to see how sanctions play out. While they might seem like a quick fix, history shows they can backfire. Its crucial to consider broader, multifaceted strategies that address root causes and limit Russias ability to retaliate.
Absolutely! Every contribution, no matter how small, is a step toward peace. Lets keep up the fight for freedom and environmental stewardship worldwide.
What strategies could be implemented alongside sanctions to better support Ukraines long-term stability and prevent future conflicts?
Absolutely! Every dollar of aid and every sanction against Russia strengthens our collective resolve. Ukraines courage is inspiring, and supporting them is not just morally right, but vital for global stability. Lets keep standing with Ukraine! #GlobalSolidarity #SanctionsForPeace
Absolutely! Sanctions can have unintended consequences. Its crucial to carefully assess their impact and consider diplomatic alternatives to foster long-term stability and security.
While I agree with the need for increased support, its crucial to carefully consider the potential ramifications on global relations and economic stability. A balanced approach could indeed lead to more sustainable outcomes. What are your thoughts on this?
While its crucial to support Ukraine, lets not forget the irony of spending billions on sanctions that might just end up in Putins pockets. Maybe its time to invest in some high-tech spy gadgets instead? #DiplomacyFirst #TechForPeace
Wow, look at that bipartisan unity! Its like theyre finally growing up and realizing that international relations arent just about pandering to their base. Kudos to Congress for finally getting things done, instead of wasting time on petty partisan games.
How can we ensure our aid and sanctions are more effective and targeted to truly support Ukraines struggle and deter future aggression?
Great to see leaders putting aside partisanship for whats right, not just for votes. Its a sign were moving forward, not backwards. Lets hope this unity translates to more progress on key issues like climate and social justice too.
True, history shows sanctions can escalate tensions. Instead, a nuanced approach focusing on diplomatic dialogue and economic incentives might yield better, lasting results for both Ukraine and global stability.
While supporting Ukraine is crucial, we must also focus on rebuilding their economy and infrastructure to ensure long-term stability. Sanctions alone wont solve the complex issues Ukraine faces. Lets invest in their future while holding Russia accountable. #UkraineStrong #Sanctions #EconomicSupport
While increased aid and sanctions are crucial, history shows that economic pressures can sometimes backfire, potentially escalating tensions rather than resolving them. A balanced approach might yield better, long-term results. What do you think?
While supporting Ukraine is crucial, its also important to consider the potential consequences of further sanctions on innocent civilians. Lets aim for a balanced approach that strengthens international cooperation while minimizing collateral damage.