(NewsNation) — The Senate is making another attempt at approving aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan Thursday, after blocking a version of the package that also included border enforcement policies earlier in the week.
A $118 billion national security package was unveiled Sunday, after months of bipartisan negotiations. However, it came under scrutiny as some Republicans, steadfast in their demand for substantial changes to border security, remained unsatisfied. Ultimately, the national security supplemental deal that included the border funding failed on a 49-50 vote.
Still, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is trying to save the foreign aid portion of the bill, which would send $95 billion to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.
Speaking on the Senate floor Thursday, Schumer said the bill is “essential” for not only the United States’ national security, but also that of Ukraine and Israel. It would also, he said, ensure civilian aid for Gaza and Taiwan and strengthen the military.
“Failure to pass this bill would only embolden autocrats like (Russian President Vladimir) Putin and (Chinese leader) Xi Jinping, who want nothing more than America’s decline,” Schumer said. “…We’re going to keep working on this bill until the job is done.”
This story is developing. Refresh for updates.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.