Kean leads House Resolution to recognize the sovereignty of Ukraine and the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) Wednesday introduced a House Resolution recognizing the sovereignty of Ukraine and the unbreakable spirit of the people of Ukraine.
The resolution, joined by 5 Members of Congress, comes just over a year since Russia crossed into a sovereign country, unleashing a completely unprovoked war of aggression on Ukraine.
The Resolution affirms strong support for continued United States support to Ukraine, urges continued and increased assistance to Ukraine, and calls on allies and partners in Europe to increase national defense spending in order to bolster trans-Atlantic security.
It also condemns Russian war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other atrocity crimes in the strongest terms and calls for accountability for those involved, including at all levels of Russian leadership.
“This war has come at a heavy cost as thousands of Ukrainians have given their lives defending democracy, sovereignty, and freedom. The Ukrainian people have proven their unbreakable spirit and fierce perseverance in their mission. When Russia’s invasion began, many said that Kyiv would fall within weeks, maybe even days. Today, Kyiv stands strong, and we will continue to stand with the brave men and women on the frontlines, as their fight for freedom continues,” said Kean, Jr (R-NJ).
“As an original Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus I have long stood with Ukraine, and her people,” said Rep. Kaptur. “For more than a year now Russia has been waging war inside the sovereign borders of Ukraine shattering the lives of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian people. Let us continue to stand with Ukraine and provide the military and humanitarian aid she desperately needs in the face of unprovoked Russian aggression. The people of Ukraine continue to fight tyranny in pursuit of the Liberty they and their nation so richly deserve. Congress’ unwavering support is needed now more than ever. Vladimir Putin’s barbaric expansionism must be countered by a united front of freedom loving nation’s supporting a free and secure Ukraine,” said Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH).
“Now more than ever, as we recognize the anniversary of Russia’s unjust war in Ukraine, it is critical that the United States continues to stand with our ally and friend in every way possible. It is not just our moral duty to help Ukraine defend itself – it is in our own economic and national security interests to defeat Vladimir Putin,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I am grateful to join Representative Kean and my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan resolution. Congress must remain committed to advocating for the Ukrainian people until peace and prosperity are once again able to thrive throughout Ukraine,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA).
“Over a year since Putin’s invasion began, Kyiv still stands. Since day one, the Ukrainian people have been undeterred. In the face of unthinkable violence and destruction, they have exemplified bravery, honor and defied all odds. It is not only their courage that has allowed this war to carry on, but the assistance the U.S. and our allies have provided. That assistance must be continued. Together, we will help Ukraine defeat Putin, save its democracy, and protect the global order,” said Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL).
“As I have said before, Putin is not going to stop at Ukraine. If his character as a tyrant did not already make this clear, his recent actions in trying to topple Moldova’s democratic government and sabotage the Netherlands’ energy infrastructure make his sinister ambitions undeniable. Peace and prosperity in Eastern Europe is crucial to our own national interest and security. With China, North Korea, and Iran working in closer cooperation with Russia than ever before, it is clear that a new axis of evil exists, dead set on dismantling and disrupting the stability of the free and democratic world. It is incumbent on us to use every tool at our disposal to oppose their aggression. As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Co-Chair of the Moldova Caucus, and sole freshman appointed to serve on the Helsinki Commission, I am committed to working with my colleagues in both parties to protect our security and stand up for our allies. Standing firm against Putin’s butchery in Ukraine is tantamount to this,” said Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY).
“As Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, I stand in strong support of the Ukrainian people in their valiant defense against illegal Russian aggression and commend the immense efforts of our European partners in providing significant military, humanitarian, and budgetary support to Ukraine,” said Congressman Bill Keating. “This resolution recognizes the heroic efforts of the Ukrainian people, and reaffirms the resolute support of the transatlantic community for Ukraine. Together the U.S., along with our allies and partners, must continue to do all we can to support Ukraine with while harnessing the momentum of our global coalition to hold Russians at all levels accountable for the war crimes they have committed in Ukraine,” said Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA).
