The 86-3 vote demonstrated widespread support for increased US troop levels in Afghanistan. A House-Senate compromise should go to President Obama shortly after Congress returns next month.

The sweeping legislation also would provide the International Monetary Fund with a new US$100 billion credit line and provides US$1.5 billion to fight a potential flu epidemic.

A few Democrats said that if they don't see measurable progress in Afghanistan they would rethink their support. The Afghanistan effort is projected to cost more than Iraq starting next year. -- AP