WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and a bipartisan congressional delegation, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the U.S. Capitol.  The meeting focused on Ukrainian efforts to repel Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.  After the meeting, Senator Reed issued the following statement:

“We had a productive, bipartisan meeting with President Zelenskyy and heard firsthand about the tremendous sacrifices Ukrainians are making as they stand as a bulwark against Putin’s illegal invasion.  Putin’s attempts to redraw Europe’s borders by force is a serious security threat.  If Putin takes Ukraine, the disastrous economic and security consequences would reverberate world-wide. The U.S. and our international partners will continue to support Ukraine and stand against tyranny.

“Members of both parties reaffirmed the strategic importance of the U.S.-Ukraine relationship and pledged to continue supporting Ukraine’s self-defense.  Not out of the kindness of their hearts, but because it is in America’s direct security interests to do so. 

“Two years on from Russia’s illegal invasion, Putin’s attempt to resurrect the Russian Empire is flailing, Ukraine continues to fight heroically, and it is clear that American leadership matters and is making a positive difference.  Members of both parties committed to defending freedom and standing up for U.S. interests by supporting Ukraine.  We will keep that commitment.”