Schumer postpones Senate recess for Ukraine-border package negotiation
The Senate Stays in Session to Secure Aid for Ukraine
The Senate will remain in session next week as negotiators work towards reaching a deal on the border that would unlock billions in new aid for Ukraine. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) made the announcement during a conference lunch on Thursday, stating that despite the scheduled break for the Christmas recess, the chamber would return on Monday. Schumer emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling on Republican colleagues to continue working next week.
This decision is not only driven by unfinished business, such as the need to approve an extension of the Federal Aviation Administration, but also serves as a tactic to pressure Republicans into reaching a deal on Ukraine. Schumer declared that he would hold another vote on President Joe Biden’s supplemental funding request next week, regardless of whether a compromise is reached or not.
Republicans, however, dismissed the idea of staying through the recess. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), one of the lead GOP negotiators for the border working group, expressed doubt about the possibility of reaching a deal before the new year. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) stated her preference to be called back into Washington if necessary.
Challenges and Expectations
According to Minority Whip John Thune (R-SD), negotiators still have a long way to go before a deal can be finalized. The working group has not even reached a conceptual agreement, let alone legislative text. Thune anticipates that Ukraine skeptics within his conference will pose obstacles once a bill is ready to be brought to the floor.
Complicating matters further, the House has already gone on recess, making it unlikely that a bill will reach the president’s desk before the new year. Democrats, however, believe that staying in Washington will expedite a deal in the Senate. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) is even delaying the FAA reauthorization to prevent members from leaving.
While progress has been made since the White House became involved in border talks, Republicans are pushing the boundaries of what Schumer and Biden are willing to concede in negotiations. Biden requested $14 billion in funding for the border as part of his Ukraine supplemental, but Republicans are demanding policy changes in response to the record number of border crossings.
Democrats plan to fill next week with nominations and the FAA vote, as well as processing the remaining four-star officers held up in Senator Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) military blockade. Their main focus, however, is getting the supplemental passed, which is crucial to Biden’s foreign policy agenda.
Despite the challenges, Democrats are committed to getting the job done. As Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) put it, “If it means getting it done, it’s our job and we should come back and do it.”
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Emily Jacobs contributed to this report.
How does the decision to keep the Senate in session next week impact the negotiations and finalization of the aid package for Ukraine
Ors on the Ukraine aid package, argued that it is unnecessary for the Senate to remain in session. He stated that negotiations are already underway and progress is being made, and therefore there is no need for the Senate to be in session to “pressure” Republicans into reaching a deal.
The issue of providing aid to Ukraine has been a matter of contention between Democrats and Republicans. President Biden has requested $300 million in supplemental funding for Ukraine, citing the country’s need for assistance in countering Russian aggression. The aid package includes funds for Ukraine’s defense capabilities and humanitarian assistance.
Democrats argue that the aid is crucial for Ukraine’s security and stability, especially in light of recent Russian military actions near the Ukrainian border. They emphasize the importance of supporting a nation that is fighting for its sovereignty and facing aggression from a powerful neighbor.
Republicans, on the other hand, express concerns about the effectiveness of the aid and the potential misuse of funds. They believe that the Biden administration should focus on diplomacy and finding a peaceful solution to the conflict, rather than providing financial assistance.
The Senate remaining in session signals the Democrats’ determination to secure aid for Ukraine and put pressure on Republicans to reach a compromise. It also highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for swift action.
The decision to stay in session next week has both political and practical implications. Politically, it sends a message that Democrats are committed to providing support for Ukraine and countering Russian aggression. It also provides a platform for Senate Democrats to continue pushing for their agenda and highlighting the importance of the aid package.
Practically, staying in session allows negotiators to continue working on reaching a deal on the border and finalizing the aid package. It provides additional time for discussions, amendments, and compromises to be made, ensuring that the final agreement addresses the concerns of both Democrats and Republicans.
The fate of the aid package for Ukraine remains uncertain. While Democrats are determined to secure the funding, they face opposition from Republicans who have reservations about the effectiveness and necessity of the aid. It is essential for both parties to engage in fruitful negotiations and find common ground for the sake of Ukraine’s security and stability.
In conclusion, the decision to keep the Senate in session next week reflects the urgency of securing aid for Ukraine and pressuring Republicans to reach a deal. The aid package is regarded as vital for Ukraine’s defense capabilities and humanitarian needs. The coming week will be crucial in determining the fate of the aid package and the level of support the United States will provide to Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
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