(April 23, 2024) The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) commends the overwhelming passage of H.R.8035, the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024 in the United States Congress. It received significant bipartisan and bicameral support and was passed by the House of Representatives on April 20 by a vote of 311 – 112 and by the Senate on April 23 with a 79-18 vote. 

It is expected that President Biden will sign the bill into law without delay.

The Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act re-affirms U.S. commitment to Ukrainian security by providing just over $60 billion in aid to Ukraine including arms, ammunition, and an Economic Support Fund. American support for Ukraine remains indispensable, particularly in the delivery of high-tech long-range weaponry, such as HIMARS and Patriot Anti-Aircraft systems.

An additional vote was held on H.R.8038, the 21^st Century Peace Through Strength Act, which includes a provision on the “Repurposing of Russian Sovereign Assets” to aid in Ukraine’s reconstruction. That bill passed in the House by a 360-58 vote.

During its just-concluded Baltic Advocacy Days, JBANC urged Members of Congress to support the Ukraine supplemental bill and the REPO Act, which “requires or authorizes various actions related to the confiscation and disposition of Russian sovereign assets.”

The Baltic countries have proactively encouraged the U.S. Congress to pass Ukraine aid. In a joint letter, the speakers of the Parliaments of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania expressed their support for American leadership in Europe: “Our joint assistance has helped to stop the aggressor and liberate a large share of previously occupied territories of Ukraine. But the Russia threat continues to be imminent, which is why we welcome the USA’s convincing leadership and dedication to freedom and security in Europe in this joint effort.”

The fight for freedom cannot be underestimated. The Baltic countries – and the Baltic communities in the United States – understand better than anyone that Russian aggression will not stop in Ukraine. Russia’s future defeat in Ukraine is not only crucial for Ukraine’s sovereignty but also a victory for transatlantic security and American national interests.

Established in 1961, JBANC has represented the Baltic-American communities and its three parent organizations, the American Latvian Association, the Estonian American National Council, and the Lithuanian American Council. Our goal has been to help coordinate their activities in Washington, DC with the U.S. Congress and administration and its related agencies in conjunction with issues related to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. We have taken great pride in over half a century in joint Baltic cooperation and in being able to help coordinate and consolidate our common interests. 

Contact: jbanc@jbanc.org

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