On the recordDecember 5, 2019
Madam Speaker, next week, leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, and Russia will meet to discuss a road forward to peace in Ukraine. President Zelensky was elected with a clear mandate to bring to an end Russia's illegal war on Ukraine. The question we must ask is: Peace at what cost to liberty? Russia illegally invaded Ukraine, already leading to the deaths of over 14,000 Ukrainians and the displacement of millions. The enemy of liberty seeks to undermine democratic institutions that have secured peace in Europe since the second World War ended. During these sensitive negotiations, freedom lovers stand shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian people. America will not tolerate any nation that bullies Ukraine into a sham peace that only rewards Kremlin aggression. We join with the Ukrainian people in welcoming a just peace in Ukraine. However, any peace agreement cannot provide legal cover for Russia's land grab. Peace can only come to Europe when Russia respects the integrity of Ukraine's borders. Madam Speaker, liberty on the European Continent hangs in the balance. Today we must do what is right and stand with Ukraine's people so that tomorrow she will have a lasting peace and Europe, as well. ____________________
