On Thursday, the US Senate passed a short-term spending bill, as reported by Reuters, to avoid a US government shutdown. The bill, which passed with a 77 to 13 vote, now awaits President Joe Biden's signature.
President Biden welcomed the bill, recognizing it as a crucial step to prevent a shutdown but emphasized its temporary nature, stating, "this is a short-term solution, not a long-term solution."
The Republican-led House of Representatives had approved the bill just under 36 hours before the potential shutdown, extending funding for six budget areas until March 8 and for another six, including the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security, until March 22.
This interim period is intended for lawmakers to finalize and pass the permanent budgets for 2024. Congress has indicated readiness to vote on six critical bills next week.
Additionally, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Republican Mike Johnson, mentioned that legislation for additional funding for Ukraine would be addressed following the resolution of the federal government funding issue.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway in the House to secure approval for Ukraine aid independently of Johnson's stance.
