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Thank you for contacting me regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, millions of Ukrainians have fled their homes, while those who remain face dire conditions—struggling with shortages of food, water, electricity, and adequate shelter as Russia continues its brutal assault. The United States and our European allies have stood together in support of Ukraine, providing economic and military assistance, as well as humanitarian aid. In April 2024, Congress passed a foreign aid package that included $61 billion to help Ukraine defend itself, a measure I was proud to support.

However, I am deeply concerned by actions taken by the Trump administration that undermine this critical effort. In one of his first moves upon returning to office, President Trump announced his intent to scale back U.S. support for Ukraine, including delaying the delivery of military aid and questioning America’s long-standing commitment to NATO. During President Zelensky’s visit to the White House, President Trump, for the first time since World War II, cast doubt on America’s willingness to defend democratic allies from authoritarian dictatorships. Instead of standing by our friends, President Trump parroted talking points straight from the Kremlin. Not only was his behavior unacceptable, but his administration also sided with Russia at the United Nations, voting against a resolution urging Russia to withdraw from Ukraine. These decisions send a dangerous signal to our allies that America is no longer a reliable partner. Siding with Vladimir Putin is shameful and represents a danger to democracies around the world. 

While we must continue to provide unwavering support for Ukraine and our NATO allies in Europe, we must also work toward a diplomatic resolution—despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s continued refusal to engage in good-faith negotiations that ensure Ukraine’s long-term security. Alongside our allies and partners, the United States has imposed sweeping sanctions to pressure Putin to end this unjust war. I remain committed to standing against Russia’s assault on Ukraine’s democracy and doing everything in my power to ensure Ukraine can defend its sovereignty. We need a lasting peace on Ukraine’s terms, not Putin’s. 

In response to reckless actions by Russian forces at Ukrainian nuclear power plants—jeopardizing the safety of countless civilians—I introduced the Nuclear Meltdown and Fallout Prevention and Preparedness Act to direct the Department of Defense to develop a plan to prevent, prepare for, and mitigate the risks posed by nuclear reactors in war zones. Additionally, during the first year of the war, I co-sponsored the Non-Recognition of Russian Annexation of Ukrainian Territory Act to ensure U.S. policy never legitimizes Russia’s illegal claims over Ukrainian land. Most recently, I co-sponsored a Senate resolution condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to vote with Russia and against Ukraine at the United Nations.

My heart remains with the people of Ukraine as they continue to defend their nation against this illegal invasion. I will keep your thoughts and outreach in mind and continue to advocate for policies that support Ukraine’s fight for peace, security, and sovereignty.

I appreciate your contacting me about this issue. If my office can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out again. To sign up for my newsletter, visit https://www.markey.senate.gov/newsletter. You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.