Shaheen Statement Following Virtual Meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and Bipartisan, Bicameral Group of Lawmakers

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement following a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with members of the bipartisan Senate Ukraine Caucus and a set of bicameral lawmakers, in response to escalating military provocation from Russia at its border:

“Russia’s aggression and violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty demand a unified response from the United States that we stand firmly with our Ukrainian partners. I was glad to join this bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers today to discuss what the U.S. can do to equip Ukraine with the capabilities necessary to defend its sovereignty. Democrats and Republicans in Congress made clear that Putin will pay a severe price for malign activity against our partners and for threatening our national security and global stability. I am pleased to see the Biden administration work in close coordination with our transatlantic allies to pursue diplomatic options and prepare punitive responses to keep Putin in check.”

Senator Shaheen is a member of the Senate Ukraine Caucus. Last month, she led a bipartisan delegation to the Halifax International Security Forum, where she helped reaffirm the U.S.’ bipartisan commitment to the transatlantic alliance and European partners, including Ukraine. During the conference, Shaheen participated in a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian officials. In June, Shaheen led a bipartisan group of lawmakers to Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, to underscore the United States’ commitment to Ukraine as it works to achieve its pro-democratic aspirations. Earlier this month, Shaheen helped lead a bipartisan resolution expressing support for an independent and democratic Ukraine—one that is secure against further Russian military aggression.

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