Pelosi Statement on President Biden’s National Security Supplemental

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on President Biden’s national security supplemental request, which passed the Senate today on a strongly bipartisan vote:

“President Biden has put forth, and the Senate has passed, a robust national security package that will be a force for freedom in the world.  This vital legislation has strong bipartisan support in the House – and Speaker Johnson should give the House the opportunity to work its will.

“The fight for freedom in Ukraine is the fight for freedom itself.  But ammunition is running short, and time is running out.  We cannot allow Putin to prevail, which could embolden him to invade a NATO ally and risk the lives of American servicemembers.  Supporting Ukraine is not only an investment in global security – it is an investment in America’s economic security.  Ninety percent of the security assistance that we have provided to Ukraine so far has been spent here at home, flowing to American businesses, workers and communities.

“At the same time, President Biden’s supplemental request will help Israel defeat the Hamas terrorists and free the remaining hostages, while surging deeply needed humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.  It is important to note that House Republicans omitted this necessary humanitarian aid from its standalone Israel supplemental last week.  Additionally, the funding for Taiwan in this legislation will be a strong statement of the Congress’ continued support for our critical ally and a flourishing democracy.

“President Biden’s national security supplemental must become law to send an unmistakable signal to allies and adversaries alike that America’s commitment to democracy remains ironclad.  President Biden’s strong leadership stands in sharp contrast to Former President Trump, whose comments encouraging Russia to attack NATO allies are disgraceful and a national security threat.”