Amata Highlights President Zelensky's Speech to Congress

Statement

Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata attended Wednesday's speech to Congress by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, and said there is strong bipartisan support for Ukraine's fight to preserve independence from Russia.

"President Zelensky gave an emotional and powerful plea for support, and he was applauded and received well by Members of Congress," said Congresswoman Amata. "I admire his resolve and especially the courageous stand by the people of Ukraine."

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Congresswoman Amata and other Members of Congress gathered to hear directly from Ukraine's President Zelensky
Congresswoman Amata and other Members of Congress gathered to hear directly from Ukraine's President Zelensky.

On Tuesday, the Ukrainian Independence ParkAct was introduced in Congress to create a new park in the nation's capital that encompasses the existing statue of Ukraine's literary hero Taras Shevchenko, an acclaimed poet and artist. This bill is a public statement of support and U.S. commitment from Congress, led by Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Bruce Westerman and Ukrainian-born Congresswoman Victoria Spartz.

"There's already been a heartbreaking human cost to this war," Amata said. "Russia must realize they must change course and withdraw. As a country, along with our many allies, we stand together and strongly support Ukraine."

The United States and Europe are providing vital aid including diplomatic pressure, sanctions against Russia, along with urgent economic and humanitarian help. The major appropriations legislation passed by Congress last week included $13.6 billion to assist the people of Ukraine and refugees, and help Ukraine preserve their national independence. The U.S. and allies are implementing sanctions on Russia's economic activity and imports.

"It's a fact that the U.S. economy is many times larger than Russia's, though Russia is a strong military power they do need the US and Europe economically, especially as time passes and Ukraine continues to hold out and resist," Amata continued. "It is key to make the Ukrainian people feel worldwide support, while making sure Putin realizes the world is watching and stands against his aggression."

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Members of Congress applaud President Zelensky who addressed Congress remotely
Members of Congress rise in applause during President Zelensky's address to Congress.

She concluded, "The Ukrainian people have been inspirational, but the war footage is sad and troubling. We pray for all of them, most of all, the children and civilians caught up in the dangers of war."

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