Washington (April 24, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement on the National Security Supplemental Aid Package.

“For Ukraine, this assistance comes at a crucial moment as it runs dangerously low on vital defense systems and as Russian President Vladimir Putin escalates his threats, nuclear saber rattling, strikes, and war effort against the Ukrainian people. The future of the trans-Atlantic alliance is at stake in this moment. This legislation also recognizes fentanyl trafficking as the dire national emergency it is and takes key steps to combat entities engaged in opioid trafficking and related criminal activity. In addition to these important provisions, the funding package includes $9 billion of critical humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, Sudan, Burma, and millions of others around the world living in dire conditions and in desperate need of basic resources.

“While I condemn Hamas’ heinous terrorist attack against Israel on October 7 and reaffirm Israel’s right to self-defense, we must ensure that all security assistance to Israel adheres to international human rights law, U.S. law, and the law of armed conflict. I call on my colleagues in Congress, and the U.S. government more broadly, to ensure that all conditions for U.S. aid are monitored, implemented, and enforced in order to protect innocent civilian lives, facilitate the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, and preserve American principles and values. I remain committed to an immediate ceasefire that will allow the families of the hostages to finally reunite with their loved ones and enable a significantly greater flow of food, water, fuel, and medicine to reach the millions of innocent Palestinians facing starvation and disease.

“It is more important than ever for the United States to work with Israelis, Palestinians, and like-minded partners to achieve a diplomatic solution to the war that leads to sustainable and enduring peace.”

###