Schatz Statement On Passage Of National Security Supplemental Funding Package

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of both the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the Senate passed a national security supplemental funding package with military assistance for Ukraine and other allies, as well as vital humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza and other regions.

“In recent months, we’ve watched in horror as Ukrainian soldiers were forced to ration bullets and artillery while Putin ramped up his bombardment – aided by weapons flowing from China, North Korea, and Iran. There are clear sides and vital stakes in this conflict: autocrats versus democrats; tyranny versus freedom; rule of law versus violence. The Senate was faced with a stark choice: support Ukraine and give it the resources it needs to defend its sovereignty or do nothing and watch Putin take control of a democratic country and close U.S. partner. It was a vote I did not take lightly – but with the fate of the free world on the line, I voted to support Ukraine.

“I also strongly support this package’s funds for deterring conflict in the Indo-Pacific and its vital aid for innocent civilians in need around the world, including in Gaza. Much more needs to be done to get them help, but this aid will help save a lot of lives.”

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