Recognizing the Second Anniversary of the Ongoing War in Ukraine and the Bravery of the Ukrainian People

Floor Speech

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Ms. SHERRILL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the courageous defensive efforts of the Ukrainian people since February 24, 2022, fighting to protect their homeland.

During my two trips to Ukraine, once right before the war and another during, I saw firsthand the grit and determination of the Ukrainian people. Many thought Russia's military was the second best in the world; two years later we've come to find it is actually only the second best in Ukraine. Since 2022, the Ukrainian people have fought bravely--defying the odds by holding onto their Capital, Kyiv, keeping the Port of Odessa open for the world food supply, and strengthening their eastern manufacturing sector.

As Congresswoman for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, I represent one of the largest Ukrainian American populations in the United States. Throughout this conflict, this vibrant community has organized many inspiring efforts to send medical and other needed supplies to Ukraine--collecting and sending over $4 million of aid through just one local cultural center. Each time I have the honor of meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, including earlier this week at the Munich Security Conference, I tell him about the Ukrainian American community in New Jersey and the vast support he and the Ukrainian people have in our state.

New Jersey's 11th Congressional District is also proud to support Ukraine with ammunition and the M-777 Howitzers that are ensuring Ukrainians can keep up the fight against Russia developed by our military base, Picatinny Arsenal.

For New Jerseyans--supporting Ukraine is not a matter of partisan politics. Democratic or Republican, New Jersey leaders, from the very beginning, have stood up for Ukraine. We understand the existential threat this poses on global democracy and the damage that would incur if we leave Russian aggression unchecked. America has stood by our ally since the beginning of this war and we must not turn our back on them now.

Slava Ukraine.

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