Congressional Ukraine Caucus Leaders Introduce Resolution
Bipartisan resolution marks anniversary of Euromaidan; calls for comprehensive, coherent policy to support Ukraine
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressional Ukrainian Caucus co-chairs Reps. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Sander Levin (D-MI) and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) are marking the one year anniversary of Ukraine’s Euromaidan demonstrations Tuesday with the introduction of a resolution calling for increased American economic and governmental involvement on the behalf of Ukraine.
“A year ago, the people of Ukraine rallied behind the ideas of economic and governmental reform during the Euromaidan demonstrations – today, the United States must take action to see their goals achieved,” said Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan resolution calls on Congress and the White House to work in the best interest of our friend and ally, Ukraine, and support a safe and sovereign nation through common sense measures: Supporting serious reform efforts, calling on the President Obama to follow through with the provision of financial and defensive military aid, and encouraging the continuation of anti-corruption efforts in Kiev.”
“On the anniversary of Maidan, this Resolution underscores our solidarity with the Ukrainian people and their efforts to chart their own history. We must fully implement the Ukraine Freedom Support Act of 2014, including providing defensive weapons. In spite of the fragile Minsk Agreement, Ukraine still needs our help to find a solution to a durable cease-fire that can lead to a longer-term solution,” said Levin. “We all know that while there is no pure military solution to what is a political problem, additional U.S. military assistance can help promote a political solution. The Ukrainian people have shown their resolve to build a free and democratic country, and we should support them in achieving that goal.”
“Ukraine is a sovereign nation at a crossroads, fighting for its life and the freedom of its people. Actions we take now will shape the future not only for the people of Ukraine but for all of Europe. This legislation makes a clear and resounding statement that the United States supports the right of free and sovereign people to defend themselves against illegal and violent aggression from beyond their borders,” said Kaptur. “The Euromaidan demonstrations one year ago today showed the world that a spirit of liberty burns brightly among the Ukrainian people. It is that same spirit that I saw reflected in the eyes of the Ukrainian Members of Parliament who came to Congress to ask for our help. I urge my colleagues in the House and Senate to adopt this legislation without delay.”
The resolution calls for the United States to assist Ukraine with economic, social and governmental reform efforts; urges President Obama to immediately act on approved financial and defensive military aid; and encourages Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko to continue anti-corruption efforts.
Introduction of the bipartisan resolution coincides with the one year anniversary of the Euromaidan demonstrations in Kiev urging for economic expansion with the European Union and government reform. Ultimately, the protests lead to the election of a pro-western government and a return to the 2004 Ukrainian constitution. One hundred and ten civilians and 28 police officers lost their lives in the Euromaidan.
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