28 July 2014
MEDIA RELEASE
Ukrainian World Congress calls upon the U.S. Congress to adopt the proposed Ukraine Security Assistance Act
The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) welcomes the introduction by the co-Chairs of the United States Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, Reps. Jim Gerlach (R-PA), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) and Sandy Levin (D‑MI), of the Ukraine Security Assistance Act (H.R. 5190) and calls upon the U.S. Congress to promptly adopt the proposed legislation.
The legislation would stipulate a clear and specific process to provide direct military and security assistance to the Government of Ukraine as it seeks to strengthen its democracy and prevent further violence and aggression by Russia-backed terrorists within its borders.
“The people of Ukraine have suffered for too long at the hands of pro-Russian separatists, who continue to threaten stability and security in the region,” said U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ). “With mounting evidence that Russia is supporting the separatists, including those that shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, it’s time for the United States to stand with the Ukrainian people by providing the support they need to protect their sovereignty and build a stronger democracy. This bipartisan legislation is an important step towards reaffirming the United States’ commitment to helping the people of Ukraine defend themselves and preserve their territorial integrity.”
This legislation would allow Ukraine to enjoy the benefits of a Major Non-NATO Ally designation and calls upon the U.S. President and the Secretary of State to increase the military-to-military interactions of the United States Armed Forces with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
“The Ukraine Security Assistance Act is an important step toward providing Ukraine with the tangible military and security assistance it needs to effectively defend its territory and protect its people from an inhumane aggressor,” commented UWC President Eugene Czolij. “We call upon the United States Congress to support this crucial proposed legislation.”
