The US House of Representatives is set to discuss a national security package that includes military aid for Ukraine, amidst opposition from far-right Republicans. House Speaker Mike Johnson is navigating the complex stance within the party, influenced by former President Donald Trump, some of whom advocate for aid to Ukraine to be converted into a no-interest loan. The urgency for aid follows reports of Ukrainian troops facing shortages in air defense missiles and ammunition due to the ongoing Russian invasion. Although the Senate has approved approximately $60bn in aid for Ukraine, the internal divide within the Republican party could potentially delay the process.

Simultaneously, the US has shown its support for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania through a $228 million military aid package under the Baltic Security Initiative. The funds aim to enhance air defense, maritime situational awareness, and land forces in the Baltic region. This comes as Estonia’s Defense Minister, Hanno Pevkur, acknowledged the accelerated military infrastructure and capability development due to the American support.

In other developments, President Joe Biden signed a $1.2 trillion federal spending package into law after the Senate’s approval, averting a possible government shutdown. The package funds the government until the end of the fiscal year and includes attention to critical areas like child care, cancer research, and border security.

Political dynamics heat further as President Biden and former President Trump won the Louisiana primaries, affirming their positions as front-runners for their respective parties. Amidst these developments, Vice President Kamala Harris announced gun violence prevention initiatives during a tour of the Parkland school shooting site.

Moreover, tensions between France and Russia have escalated, with French politician Jordan Bardella expressing concerns over the potential for a direct conflict between NATO ally France and Russia. This is in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s considerations of military support for Ukraine.

Lastly, Republican House Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has made intentions clear to remove Mike Johnson as House Speaker, although faced with internal opposition and lack of widespread support. This move amid proposals for additional aid to Ukraine reflects the intricate internal dynamics and differing viewpoints within the Republican party. The stance on Ukraine aid and leadership disputes underscore the broader political and national security dialogue in the US.