DeLauro Statement on Ukrainian Independence Day

Chair of the House Appropriations Committee Rosa DeLauro today released a statement celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day, commemorating Ukraine's 1991 Declaration of Independence which established the nation as an independent state separate from the former Soviet Union.

"Today, on Ukrainian Independence Day, I echo President Volodymyr Zelensky in honoring the free people of independent Ukraine. The Ukrainian people are fighting in an unprovoked war against a tyrannical Putin. But Putin has not won. The struggle continues, and Ukraine remains independent, with its free people standing strong against Russian incursions of their sovereignty and freedom.

"For six months now, the people of Ukraine have been locked in an unjust war with a brutal dictator hellbent on stripping their hard-earned freedoms away. And for six months, the Ukrainian people have held the line, defending their independence, their families, and their land. Their determination to preserve their independence is something to behold.

"I proudly stand with the free people of independent Ukraine, today and every day. I will continue to work to ensure that Ukraine has the tools it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression and preserve its independence for generations to come. We will lend you our support as you fight to preserve your nation, and ultimately, your freedom, in this war. The world is united. Happy Independence Day to Ukraine!"