WASHINGTON – SFRC Chairman Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) today released the below statement ahead of the first anniversary of Vladimir Putin’s illegal and unprovoked war on Ukraine:
“Today, on the eve of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin and his forces’ heinous abuses are fresh in our minds. Deliberate attacks on medical facilities and civilian infrastructure, the use of rape as a weapon of war, and the forced deportation and imprisonment of thousands of children mark Putin’s unconscionable and irresponsible rejection of the rules-based international order. Not since World War II have we seen a leader demonstrate such ruthless desire to create an empire for himself; and it is all the more alarming to see other malign actors choose to stand with him on the wrong side of history.
“Ukraine, by contrast, has since offered powerful demonstrations of courage and strength. Standing up to Putin’s war machine and devastating crimes against humanity, our Ukrainian brothers and sisters have fought tirelessly in defense of their sovereignty and way of life, all the while supported by a historic show of solidarity by the West.
“One year on, we remain steadfast in our commitment, as we seek to match Ukrainians’ resolve with the arms and ammunition needed to win this war, to tighten sanctions to exact maximum costs on Putin and his accomplices, and to facilitate Ukraine’s ultimate restoration and reconstruction. Ukraine’s promise of victory is more alive today than ever before, and we will stand with brave Ukrainians—for as long as it takes—until they prevail. Slava Ukraini.”
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