Lynn C. Woolsey: “as every Member in this body is well aware, the issue of Kosovo is an extremely difficult one and there is no easy…”

“as every Member in this body is well aware, the issue of Kosovo is an extremely difficult one and there is no easy answer. It would be easier for all of us if this issue were black and white. It would be easier for us if this supplemental spending bill was not mired in politics. And it would be easier if all of the funds in this bill were used for true emergencies. I supported the Obey amendment today, not because I support further military operations in Kosovo, but because it is the responsible thing to do. The legislation and the current amendment before us, does not address the real emergencies that need to be dealt with right away. Regardless of one's perspective on current United States policy and operations in the Balkans, our troops are in harm's way, and we have a responsibility to ensure that they have the resources they need. I do not support continuing the airstrikes and I do not support sending in ground troops. But we have already spent an estimated $1 billion on this operation. A responsible nation does not commit to something and then refuse to pay for it. I may oppose the policy that we've committed to, but I am not willing to say that the United States should break the promise America has already made to NATO. It is not that easy. But, I will not refuse U.S. aid for the tens of thousands of refugees expelled from their homeland. That is why I supported the Obey amendment today.”