Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
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KYIV, UKRAINE – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and his colleagues met with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as part of their bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Ukraine. During their meeting, the senators expressed strong solidarity with Ukraine in the face of increased Russian aggression, including further military buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border as well as the ongoing conflict in Donbas and purported annexation of Crimea.
“In the face of Russian aggression, it is incredibly important to have our bipartisan delegation come to Kyiv and demonstrate Congress’ enduring support for Ukraine. We had an informative and productive trip. There is strong unity in our respect and support for the Ukrainian people and their independence,” said Senator Cramer.
The senators expressed their deep concern over the buildup of Russia’s forces in and around Ukraine. They pledged to continue to support funding for Ukraine’s defense in the U.S. Senate to counter aggression aimed at the country. Discussions touched further needs Ukraine has for assistance to counter the Russian threat. The Senators also discussed the need for Ukraine to continue its democratic reforms in order to position the country for membership in NATO.
The senators discussed increased funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative that recently passed Congress as part of the FY 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. The initiative has been extended through 2022 and its funding has been increased from $250 to $300 million per year, with at least $75 million specifically designated for lethal assistance. The funds will be used to help train, equip, and provide support for the Ukrainian government and armed forces in their effort to defend their independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity against Russian aggression.