On June 3, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 218-204 to advance a security package that includes military aid for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. All House Democrats voted in favor, along with seven Republicans who defied their party leadership. The package aims to reaffirm U.S. support for Ukraine and NATO, authorize over $1 billion in military assistance, and impose sanctions on Russia if it continues its aggression. The measure will proceed to a final vote, expected soon.
The legislation's future in the Republican-controlled Senate is uncertain, with previous bipartisan efforts to sanction Russia having stalled. House Speaker Mike Johnson opposed the measure, but some Republicans joined Democrats in supporting a discharge petition to bring the bill to a vote. Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to strengthen U.S. support for Ukraine and deter further Russian aggression. The bill also calls for increased defense spending from NATO countries and restores funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, which faced cuts under the previous administration.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated that Democrats are acting in support of democracy and the Ukrainian people by forcing the vote on this package. The use of discharge petitions has increased under Johnson's leadership, allowing a coalition of Democrats and some Republicans to push legislation forward despite opposition.
