Ukraine Support Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Ukraine Support Act.

This vote transcends politics. This vote is about freedom. Just days ago, Russia launched over 650 drones and 73 missiles at Ukrainian cities. Families were murdered in their homes, and children were forced into shelters.

Once again, Vladimir Putin showed the world that he has no interest in peace. He is only interested in terror.

Five years into this illegal war, the Ukrainian people are defending their country against Russia's brutal aggression. Against all odds, they have transformed and modernized their military into one of the strongest and most capable fighting forces in Europe. They have pioneered technologies that are changing warfare itself, from advanced drone operations to battlefield innovation that militaries around the world are now studying.

Mr. Speaker, I have stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines during this conflict. I have heard the artillery fire. I have watched young men and women defend their country with extraordinary courage. They remind me of another generation of fighters: the Americans who defended democracy abroad during World War II, our Greatest Generation. They are fighting for their freedom. They are fighting for democracy. They are fighting for global peace and global security.

Mr. Speaker, the Ukrainian people are not asking for Americans to fight this war. They are asking for the tools to defend themselves and for the partnership of a nation that has always stood for liberty.

The Ukraine Support Act strengthens Ukraine's ability to protect civilians; extends lend-lease authority; provides critical military assistance; sanctions Russia's war machine, its shadow fleet, and those responsible for kidnapping innocent Ukrainian children by the tens of thousands; and makes clear that aggression on this planet has consequences.

We must send a clear message not only to Russia but to every dictator watching us tonight around the world: America will not stand by while free nations are attacked.

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