Biden considers new border restrictions to win Republican support for Ukraine military aid

AP

High-ranking US government officials aimed to strike a deal on Wednesday to provide military aid to Ukraine, even conceding to Republican senators' demands regarding border policies. The White House rushed to secure a preliminary agreement with key Senate negotiators, yet the terms haven't been finalized.

As details emerged, migrant advocates and Democratic members expressed concern about the debated policies, cautioning about a potential return to strict border measures akin to the Trump administration.

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Congress is under pressure to resolve Biden's $110 billion request for Ukraine, Israel, and national security issues, withheld by Republicans until changes in border policies are made. Although efforts were made to fortify the southern border and expel recent migrants, Senate Republicans didn't see enough progress and were poised to leave Washington before Thursday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington seeking support, while US response to the Russian invasion and immigration matters remained pending.

Discussions include plans to limit asylum requests if daily crossings exceed a certain number and detain those who apply, even families with children, possibly using electronic monitoring systems. There's also consideration for rapidly expelling migrants with less than two years in the US.

These policies resemble those attempted during the Trump administration, many of which faced legal challenges. If enacted into law, they would limit legal challenges to asylum restrictions.

Migrant advocates fear a return to anti-immigrant policies and question their effectiveness in addressing border issues.

Democratic leaders acknowledge the need for a balanced agreement with bipartisan support in the Senate and reject some of the proposed provisions.

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Despite initial optimism, Republicans and Democrats haven't reached a definitive agreement yet. Despite efforts to keep lawmakers in Washington until the package is approved, the House of Representatives also needs to endorse these measures, likely facing opposition from both parties.

Progressive Democrats and Hispanic leaders pledge opposition to these policies and emphasize the importance of Latino legislators in these negotiations.

The White House seeks a bipartisan compromise but faces criticism regarding the severity of the discussed provisions.

While senators aim to return next week, Senate action would lack significance if the House of Representatives doesn't act swiftly, as some lawmakers caution.