Rep. Calvert Statement on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's Address to Congress

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42) issued the following statement following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's address to Congress:

“In the early days of Russia’s invasion, a Ukrainian medic transporting injured troops from the front lines summed up the stakes for his country, ‘Either we fight them off or we will all die. We’re hanging on and will do so to the end.’ Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy echoed that message before Congress this evening.

After months of fighting, the world has witnessed the resolve of the Ukrainian people, we’ve been moved by their bravery, and many skeptics have been proven wrong about their ability to put up a fight against the once mighty Russian military.

While the heroic resistance to the invading Russian forces is aimed at liberating Ukraine, we should bear in mind that in reality this fight is the frontline of defending liberty and democracy for greater Europe. There should be no question that Putin’s ambition and desires do not and would not end in Ukraine.

I believe America’s financial and technical contributions to this greater struggle for the independence and freedom of our allies across Europe are a worthwhile investment. In addition to strengthening our democratic international partners, significantly weakening Russia’s potency for aggression is not an insignificant secondary benefit in this endeavor.

As we approach Christmas, we pray for peace and hope that the end to this horrific invasion is within sight.”