Political Quotes

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise to support H. Res. 348, supporting free elections in Ukraine. I want to thank Chairman Royce and Ranking Member Engel for their strong support and cosponsorship of this legislation, which I was proud to introduce and which affirms Congress' unwavering support for free elections in Ukraine. I thank my many colleagues on both sides of the aisle who have signed on as cosponsors and contributed to the final language of the bill. Support of the democratic and economic development of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression remains one of the most vital efforts the United States can undertake to combat Russian belligerence and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to promoting democracy and human rights around the world. Next week--next Sunday, in fact--the people of Ukraine will head to the polls to exercise their right to choose their own government. However, because of the continued defiance of Russian-led separatists, not every region of Ukraine will be able to participate in these elections. The illegal and forcible occupation of Crimea and the ongoing Russian support for separatists in eastern Ukraine are a clear violation of international law and diplomacy. The Minsk II agreement was a historic step toward potentially ending the violence and unrest in the country, and it is now upon the Governments of Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. and our European allies as implementing partners to ensure its successful execution.…”