Congress receives Ukraine update from President Zelensky

Today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a virtual address to all members of the United States House and Senate to discuss his country’s efforts in combating their Russian aggressors. This comes one day after President Biden signed a one-time $13.6 billion spending bill providing Ukraine with military and humanitarian aid in their fight against the Russian invasion.

Congressman Doug LaMalfa voted in support of this legislation when it passed through the House the week prior. $6.5 billion was allocated to the U.S. Department of Defense to deploy troops to the NATO region and send defense equipment; more than $4 billion will be used for humanitarian support for refugees fleeing Ukraine and people displaced within the country; and nearly $1.8 billion to help respond to the economic needs in Ukraine and neighboring countries, such as energy and cybersecurity.

“Ukraine did nothing to provoke Putin’s ruthless attack on their people,” LaMalfa said. “Our hearts go out to those suffering because a tyrant wants to rebuild his empire. Today, President Zelensky asked for our help and reminded the world that the price of freedom is vigilance in the defense of Republican ideals that protect the individual from the whims of despots. Although I am opposed to sending American troops directly into the conflict or risking the outbreak of World War III, it is our duty as Ukraine’s ally and a leader on the world stage to provide our friend with the tools it needs to combat their aggressor. President Zelensky and the people of Ukraine have shown extraordinary bravery, resilience and determination in the face of Russia’s brutal attack.”