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Ukraine Aid Package Stalled in House

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  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 3:58 GMT by New Hampshire Bulletin
      Locales: Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 5th, 2026 - A critical $95 billion foreign aid package, intended to bolster Ukraine's defense against ongoing Russian aggression and provide assistance to key allies, remains stalled in the House of Representatives. The delay stems from intensifying disagreements among House Republicans regarding the budgetary implications of the bill, specifically a recent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) score regarding the potential rescission of unspent COVID-19 relief funds to offset the aid's cost.

The CBO's initial ruling offered a pathway forward for Republicans seeking to demonstrate fiscal prudence while simultaneously addressing urgent national security concerns. The proposal centered on repurposing approximately $95 billion in previously allocated but unspent COVID-19 relief funds. This, theoretically, would allow the foreign aid package to pass without adding to the national debt. However, this compromise is now fracturing under mounting pressure from within the Republican caucus.

Hardline conservatives, emboldened by their focus on fiscal discipline, are now aggressively challenging the CBO's methodology and the validity of using COVID-19 funds for foreign aid. They argue that these funds, while technically 'unspent,' were earmarked for specific domestic needs and should not be diverted, even for a critical ally like Ukraine. Concerns have been voiced that rescinding the funds could inadvertently impact ongoing public health initiatives or disaster preparedness programs - a narrative increasingly amplified by conservative media outlets.

Speaker Mike Johnson finds himself in an increasingly precarious position, caught between these competing demands. He is simultaneously navigating the expectations of a vocal conservative base insistent on stringent budget controls, and the pressure from moderate Republicans and Democrats who view the foreign aid package as vital for maintaining international stability and upholding U.S. commitments to allies. Several moderate Republicans have publicly voiced their frustration with the delays, arguing that further hesitation will erode America's credibility on the world stage and embolden adversaries.

"The situation in Ukraine is dire, and our allies are looking to us for leadership," stated Representative Emily Carter (R-CA) earlier today. "We cannot allow partisan infighting to jeopardize a package that is so critical to our national security interests. Finding responsible funding solutions should be possible, but dragging our feet only serves to benefit our enemies."

The debate over the aid package extends beyond simple budgetary concerns. A growing number of Republicans, influenced by a rising tide of isolationist sentiment, are questioning the long-term strategic benefits of continued aid to Ukraine. They argue that the U.S. should focus on domestic priorities and avoid becoming entangled in protracted foreign conflicts. This perspective, while a minority within the party, is gaining traction and adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.

The Biden administration has repeatedly urged Congress to pass the aid package without further delay. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a statement yesterday emphasizing the urgency of the situation, warning that a continued hold-up in aid will have significant consequences for Ukraine's ability to defend itself. "Every day of delay weakens Ukraine and strengthens Russia's hand," Sullivan said. "This is not just about Ukraine; it's about sending a clear message to autocrats around the world that aggression will not be tolerated."

The standoff has prompted discussions about alternative funding mechanisms, including potentially increasing the national debt or identifying other areas for spending cuts. However, these options face significant opposition from both sides of the aisle. Increasing the debt is anathema to conservatives, while Democrats are unlikely to support deep cuts to domestic programs.

The House is expected to hold a series of closed-door meetings next week to attempt to broker a compromise. Speaker Johnson has indicated he is open to considering amendments to the bill, but has also cautioned that any changes must be fiscally responsible and align with the Republican party's broader policy objectives. The future of the $95 billion foreign aid package, and potentially the U.S.'s role in addressing critical global security challenges, hangs in the balance.