Jim Costa: “Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the world has changed--socially, economically, and the political landscape. Putin's…”

“Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the world has changed--socially, economically, and the political landscape. Putin's war has killed thousands of Ukrainians, innocent citizens, and displaced millions who have struggled to get food and resources in this region. Last April, I spoke on the floor after the attacks in Bucha, which I visited, and labeled President Putin for what he is, a war criminal. As Russia continues this unprovoked attack on Ukraine, we must continue to stand strong and united against him. I traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine's capital city, as a part of the Yalta European Strategy Conference recently. As one of the only Members of Congress to have actually stayed overnight, spent a couple of days, I witnessed the 24-hour cycle of the capital city finding energy once again, revitalizing itself through its day-to-day routines. I saw parts of the city where Russia's tanks entered the suburbs and killed innocent civilians, as well as children, destroying homes, apartments and schools, mass graves with over 166 individuals. Even through this tragedy, Ukraine has remained resilient, and Kyiv returns to life. I felt relatively safe as I walked the streets in the central city. Looking back to where the city was 6 months ago is a reminder to me of how precious all of our freedoms are. As I met Ukrainians across the capital, it was inspiring to see their hope that better days are coming, and that Ukraine will prevail.…”