US approves record $886bn defence policy bill, including $300m for Ukraine

The US House of Representatives has passed the defence policy bill approved by Congress, which provides for a record $886 billion in defence spending in 2024.

The Guardian reports.

$300 million was allocated to the Security Assistance Initiative for Ukraine. However, this is a separate assistance project that does not include additional funding of $61 billion, which is being blocked in Congress.

The draft law also provides for oversight of the appropriate use of US funds in Ukraine by the US Inspector General. This is in addition to the oversight work already carried out by other oversight bodies.

After the document is adopted, the defence bill is to be signed by US President Joe Biden.

At the same time, the US Congress has not yet approved Biden's request for additional funding to help Ukraine due to opposition from some Republicans. 

December 14 is the last day of the House of Representatives before the three-week "recess". If the bill is not passed by the end of the day, it will only be possible after the holidays.