Barbara Lee: “I thank the distinguished ranking member for yielding and for her tremendous leadership on global peace and security…”

“I thank the distinguished ranking member for yielding and for her tremendous leadership on global peace and security issues in this House. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of H.R. 8035. This bill provides nearly $10 billion in economic assistance for Ukraine and surrounding countries, with nearly $8 billion in direct budget support. When I visited Ukraine in 2019, I immediately recognized the love of the Ukrainian people for their country and for their democracy. Since the war broke out, I have met with Ukrainians in the region. Actually, I was with Speaker Pelosi during that visit. I heard firsthand the dire situation that they face amidst Russian aggression. I have talked with civil society organizations funded by the United States that, facing danger and violence, are supporting refugees, vulnerable people, women, and children. I was deeply moved by their stories and commitment. The United States must support these brave Ukrainians in their efforts to protect their sovereignty because, let's be clear, Putin will not stop until Ukraine's democracy is dismantled, and we all know that he will not stop with Ukraine. As ranking member of the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Subcommittee, I am proud that we are also considering other significant investments in the United States' global leadership today, particularly the more than $9 billion in desperately needed humanitarian assistance.…”