Candice S. Miller: “I rise today to offer my wholehearted support of Ukraine's desire to be admitted as a member of NATO. When Ukraine…”

“I rise today to offer my wholehearted support of Ukraine's desire to be admitted as a member of NATO. When Ukraine declared her independence in 1990 from the Soviet Union, she stated her desire to be a member of the community of free nations. As this young democracy matures, it is incumbent upon the nation members of NATO to not only support their development, but ally with them to ensure the commitment to freedom. The United States has enjoyed a strong relationship with the Ukraine and it is my hope that this relationship grows even stronger with time as both of our countries work to improve stability around the world. It is regrettable that the objections seem to come from the very country that once held the Ukraine under their absolute control. In my opinion the objections of Russia are not sufficient to deny NATO membership for Ukraine. As someone who represents a great many citizens of Ukrainian descent I understand well the desire of the Ukrainian people for freedom. America has always answered the call to support and defend those who yearn to be free and it is time to answer the call of Ukraine. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.”