U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) released a joint statement today following their visit to Ukraine, where they met with U.S. and Ukrainian government officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky.
“After our sixth visit to Kyiv, we are more optimistic than ever that the tide of war has turned against Putin and his regime. Ukraine’s recent offensive in the Kursk region of Russia was both bold and strategic,” the senators stated.
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The bipartisan support for Ukraine remains crucial to American interests, and both senators pledged to strengthen this support in 2024.
“We are committed to building on these successes and securing the future military aid necessary to maintain the momentum,” the senators said.
Graham and Blumenthal also called on NATO to extend an invitation to Ukraine for membership this year, emphasizing that what has been described as inevitable should now become a reality.
During their meeting, President Zelensky expressed enthusiasm for a strategic agreement with the U.S. regarding Ukraine’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals.
The senators highlighted the importance of this agreement, which would bolster U.S. economic strength and accelerate Ukraine’s recovery. “Ukraine is blessed with significant lithium, titanium, and other rare earth minerals critical to the American economy. An agreement in this area would reduce U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries for these vital resources,” they explained.
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The senators announced plans to introduce the bipartisan “Stand With Ukraine Act,” led by Senator Blumenthal, when the Senate reconvenes in September. This legislation aims to codify the bilateral security agreement reached between the Biden Administration and Zelensky’s government in July. “This will send a clear message to the world that the United States continues to stand firmly with Ukraine,” they affirmed.
Graham and Blumenthal also urged the Biden Administration to lift restrictions on U.S.-provided weapons to enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian forces effectively. Additionally, they expressed support for Zelensky’s initiative to enlist retired NATO F-16 fighter pilots to bolster Ukraine’s Air Force, likening it to the freedom fighters already serving on the ground.
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“Now is the time to forge a strategic partnership with Ukraine that can yield significant economic benefits for the United States and ensure stability in Europe. Ukraine has demonstrated its commitment to joining the democratic family of nations, and we must not abandon them in their hour of need. We should accelerate the gains achieved through determination and courage,” the senators concluded.
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