US Democrats weigh $15 billion in new Ukraine aid after midterm victories - FT
Congressional Democrats are discussing a new security assistance package for Ukraine worth up to $15 billion following their victories in the November 3 midterm elections, the Financial Times reported on November 7, citing party officials.
The proposed amount was estimated by an aide to the House Foreign Affairs Committee. No legislation has been introduced, and the package's final size and contents remain uncertain.
Democrats, who won control of both chambers of Congress, are seeking ways to provide additional support to Ukraine before the new Congress takes office in January 2027.
One possible route is the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which lawmakers must negotiate before the current congressional term ends. Assistance for Ukraine's energy sector is among the immediate priorities, according to the FT.
The discussions come as Russia continues to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of winter.
What changes with Democratic control of Congress?
Democrats secured at least 54 Senate seats and more than 231 seats in the House of Representatives in the midterm elections, giving them control of both chambers beginning in January.
Their majorities would allow them to set the legislative agenda and advance new Ukraine aid measures. However, President Donald Trump could still veto legislation, and overriding a veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers, including support from Republican lawmakers.
Democrats are also considering changes to existing legislation imposing sanctions on Russia's defense and energy sectors, according to congressional aides cited by the FT.
The discussions follow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent statement that Washington had yet to deliver approximately $16 billion in previously agreed assistance.
No timeline has been announced for introducing or voting on the proposed new package.
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