Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7691, a bill that would provide additional assistance to Ukraine and other partners in the region.

Ten weeks ago, we witnessed Russia begin its attack on the sovereign nation of Ukraine.

To support Ukraine and our allies during this unprovoked, illegal, and appalling attack, Congress provided nearly 14 billion dollars in emergency funding through the fiscal year 2022 appropriations bills.

That funding has been crucial in Ukraine's efforts to fight back against Putin's evil invasion.

The bill before us today would provide roughly $40 billion in assistance to address the ongoing conflict.

With Russia continuing to take control of the country, more resources are needed to:

Mister Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2471, a bill that will provide funding for the Federal Government through the end of this fiscal year.

While it has taken us far too long to get here, I am glad we were able to produce a bill that includes many funding priorities that I support.

Since last summer, I have made it clear that House Republicans wouldn't oppose appropriations bills unless they:

• Increase defense spending,
• Restrain non-defense spending,
• Include all long-standing policy provisions, and
• Do not include any poison pill riders.

After months of negotiations, we reached a deal that meets all four of these criteria.

The bill before us: