Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong support for H. Res. 447, a resolution supporting the democratic and European aspirations of the Ukrainian people and their right to choose their own future free of intimidation and fear. As an original co-sponsor and as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats, I believe it is essential for Congress to continue to show its strong support for the Ukrainian people. In the two decades since Ukraine gained its independence from the Soviet Union, Congress has been at the forefront of efforts to foster democratic and economic reform in Ukraine. I have been deeply troubled by developments in Ukraine since President Yanukovych's surprising announcement last November that his government would not sign an Association Agreement with the European Union. I remain concerned that Mr. Yanukovych and his government were unduly pressured by outside forces to take a decision at odds with the long-term interests of the Ukrainian people and that the government's decision was not taken in consultation with other political stakeholders. Since November, I have watched Ukraine's unfolding political crisis with growing concern, especially authorities' use of violence against peaceful protestors. I have been deeply dismayed by the deaths and injuries sustained on all sides.…”