Senate backs bill to aid Ukraine, sanction Russia

The US Congress is speaking with one voice against Russia's annexation of Crimea, passing legislation in the House and Senate giving help to Ukraine and imposing sanctions against Russia.

The Senate approved the legislation by voice vote Thursday while the House was passing a different version on a 399-19 vote.

The votes are a show of solidarity with President Barack Obama, who has already announced sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin and others.

Lawmakers intend to get a final measure to the White House by day's end.

Each bill would provide $1 billion in loan guarantees to cash-strapped Ukraine and sanction Russia for its annexation of Crimea.