Pappas Reaction to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Address to Congress
Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed a joint session of Congress during his first trip abroad since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began 300 days ago.
"It was an honor to welcome President Zelenskyy to address a joint session of Congress this evening and to hear of the resolve, spirit, and determination of the people of Ukraine, who at this moment are fighting for their own destiny. The world watched in horror as Russian troops and tanks rolled into Ukraine, violating the sovereignty of America's democratic ally and causing chaos that rippled across the globe. America and our democratic allies responded in kind and must continue to do so. In support of European countries battling Hitler's aggression in 1941, President Roosevelt called for America to send resources and aid ‘to the battle lines of democracy.’ Those lines have been drawn again today, and I will continue to support efforts to aid in Ukraine's fight against Vladimir Putin's illegal and immoral invasion and to ensure that we once again help make the world safe for democracy."
Background:
Pappas called Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine a "senseless violation of international law and selfish determination to dictate a sovereign nation's future by force."
In May, Pappas helped pass bipartisan legislation to provide comprehensive aid to Ukraine. He previously helped pass bipartisan legislation to speed the delivery of needed weapons systems to Ukraine and enhance existing lend-lease authorities, as well as legislation to revoke free trade privileges from Russia, ban Russian energy imports, and extend U.S. sanctions against violators of human rights and corrupt actors.
The government funding package announced this week includes support for the Ukrainian people. It defends global democracy by providing emergency funding for Ukraine as they continue to fight back against Russia's unprovoked invasion.
As a result of his support for Ukraine, Pappas has been banned from entering Russia.