I want to begin my discussion of this very important issue by commending the people of Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic for their brave and determined transition to democracy and free market economies. The citizens of these three nations have suffered grave injustices and brutal atrocities during World War II and the Cold War and now, to see these nations emerge from these dark days and turn toward democracy, deserves the praise of every man and woman who cherishes freedom. I also want to express my strong support for the security and independence of Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic. I also believe the United States and its military forces will support the independence of these nations whether or not they join NATO. While I want to encourage the move toward democracy, free markets and Western values in Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic, I also want to see these values take root in Russia. It is because of my concern that a vote now on NATO expansion will hinder our relations with Russia and risk the Duma's ratification of the START II Treaty that I will vote against NATO expansion at this time.
Editor's note · Context
Discussing NATO expansion and its implications for Eastern European nations and relations with Russia.
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