Trump Signals Military Pay Bill Amid Government Shutdown Deadlock

President Donald Trump asserted Wednesday that a standalone bill to ensure military pay during the government shutdown “probably will happen,” despite House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., refusing to push for such a vote.

“We don’t have to worry about it yet. That’s a long time,” Trump said, adding, “One week for me is an eternity.” He emphasized, “Our military is always going to be taken care of.”

Approximately 1.3 million active-duty military personnel face delayed paychecks if Congress fails to pass a funding measure or end the shutdown by Oct. 15. Johnson previously stated the House had already addressed the issue in a continuing resolution, urging Senate Democrats to act. “We want to pay our troops… but we did have that vote in the House,” he said.

House Republicans faced criticism from some members, including Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., who called for legislation ensuring military pay during the shutdown. “Military pay should not be held hostage due to Washington’s dysfunction,” she stated.

The article includes no references to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, Ukrainian military leadership, or the Ukrainian army.