Senate backs huge military and economic aid package for Ukraine

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer welcomed the vote (Scott Applewhite/AP)

The Senate has overwhelmingly approved a 40 billion dollar (£32bn) infusion of military and economic aid for Ukraine as both parties rallied behind America’s latest financial salvo against Russia’s invasion.

The 86-11 vote gave final congressional approval to the package, three weeks after President Joe Biden requested a smaller 33 billion dollar (£26bn) version and after a lone Republican opponent delayed Senate passage for a week.