AUGUSTA - The Maine House on Tuesday passed a measure expressing support for Ukraine and condemning Russia's aggression one year after Russian forces invaded the neighboring country. The vote was 87-54.
Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, sponsored the Joint Resolution. Millett spoke Tuesday about her experience living in Ukraine as a member of the Peace Corps in the years following Ukraines 1991 independence. She called Russias invasion egregious and unprovoked.
"Nothing justifies supporting the extinguishing of a culture, a nation, a people. Nothing," said Millett. "More than 13 million people have been displaced by this invasion of the sovereign nation of Ukraine. Families uprooted, homes destroyed and lives horrifically extinguished. The indiscriminate targeting of civilians and the mass forcible deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia is horrifying and unacceptable."
Ukraine and the world observed the one-year anniversary of Russias invasion on Friday, Feb. 24. According to the United Nations, at least 8,000 non-combatants have been killed, and the true total is likely much higher.
"For more than a year, the people of Ukraine have suffered during this brutal war to defend their country following the unprovoked Russian invasion," said Assistant House Majority Leader Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston. "Since the war began, nearly 14 million people have been displaced, some of whom have resettled right here in Maine and become a crucial part of our communities. There is no question that this Russian invasion continues to pose a threat to democracy everywhere, and I am proud to stand in support with the people of Ukraine."
The Joint Resolution now faces consideration by the state Senate.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Cloutier, Millett], c. 305-965-2744