RIGA, April 21 (LETA) - Latvian officials welcome the passing of the Ukraine aid bill by the US House of Representatives.

"A great day for the free world, a great day for Ukraine," said Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics, "this vote contributes to security in Europe and the Euro-Atlantic area. Thank you!"

"Thank you very much, America, and we will continue to support Ukraine against Russian aggression," added Foreign Minister Baiba Braze, stressing that Senate confirmation is still needed for the military aid to reach Ukraine quickly.

Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) stresses that this is a critically important decision for Ukrainian soldiers and civilians at such a difficult time.

"The US has been a key supporter of Ukraine throughout the time since Russia's full-scale invasion. The new USD 61 billion US military aid package will provide Ukraine with both artillery and air defense. Other NATO allies should also look for every opportunity to do more to help Ukraine with the rapid delivery of weapons systems," the politician said.

"I am glad that we can count on the US to defend the territorial integrity of democracies and independent states. A strong signal of unity against an aggressor," added European Commission Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis (New Unity) on social media.

As reported, the Republican-controlled US House of Representatives voted on Saturday in favor of a bill to provide long-delayed aid to Ukraine.

The aid to Ukraine is bundled together with aid to Israel and Taiwan. Of the total USD 95 billion in the package, USD 61 billion is earmarked for Ukraine.

The unusual four-bill package also includes funds for Israel, security assistance for Taiwan and allies in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as measures that include sanctions, the threat to ban the Chinese-owned social media app TikTok and the possible transfer of seized Russian assets to Ukraine.

After approval by the House of Representatives, the bills will be sent to the US Senate as a single package.