WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following statement in observance of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine:
“On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the people of America must recommit to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and democracy. We stand side-by-side with the people of Ukraine who, under the leadership of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have shown remarkable resilience and courage in their fight against Russia.
“As the Trump Administration’s isolationist and chaotic foreign policies fray our longstanding diplomatic relationships in Europe, it has never been more important to reaffirm our strong and steady commitment to Ukraine’s freedom and sovereignty. President Trump’s disparaging remarks against Ukraine and our NATO allies, and his praise of Vladimir Putin, should be condemned and do not represent the will of the American people who overwhelmingly back Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
“The American people cannot, and should not, accept anything but the strongest rebuke of Putin’s brutal crimes. Russia’s unprovoked attack is patterned and longstanding behavior: Russia has kidnapped hundreds—potentially thousands—of Ukrainian children; Putin’s army has starved, tortured, and killed prisoners and opponents; Russia has attacked NATO members’ hospitals and critical communications infrastructure; Putin has provided refuge to Bashar al Assad, who should be tried for crimes against humanity at The Hague. Putin is no friend to the United States nor to the cause of peace in Europe.
“In the absence of action by this administration, Congress must punish Russia for its crimes and impose consequences for any country that supports or enables Putin’s invasion. I urge quick action on bipartisan legislation to further sanction Russia.
“We must work with our allies to protect Ukraine and support the Ukrainian people’s fight for survival. Our own security is linked to the security of Ukraine, and to the security of Europe. We are in this together.”
###