Political Quotes

“I am pleased the U.S. Senate voted favorably to add Montenegro as a permanent member to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, NATO, sending a strong signal of transatlantic unity. NATO plays a vital role in maintaining security and stability throughout Europe, and including Montenegro in this strategic alliance will strengthen NATO and encourage stability within the region. Montenegro is a growing democracy that has repeatedly proven itself to be a valuable ally since joining NATO's Partnership for Peace Program in 2006. They are partnered with our Maine National Guard, and have been a strong ally in the fight in Afghanistan since 2010. Having visited Montenegro, I can say, without a doubt, that it has demonstrated a commitment to NATO, the United States, and regional stability. This vote sends clear message of support to our friends in Montenegro. It also sends a strong message to NATO and gives notice that the United States will stand up for Western democracies, despite continued pressure from the Kremlin. We must deter Russia's destabilizing actions in the region, including Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its continued support for rebels in eastern Ukraine. Putin is learning lessons from these examples and will continue his quest to expand his influence as far as the world community will allow.…”