Portman Statement on Russian Aggression in Ukraine

Statement

U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) released the following statement on continuing Russian aggression in Ukraine:

"The news of additional Russian conventional forces entering Ukraine is another harsh reminder of the Administration's failed policy toward the crisis. The Obama Administration has failed to provide concrete support to Ukraine and our other allies in the region, and only a fraction of what little has been promised has been delivered. The President's fear of provoking Putin was misguided from the start, and now has proven to be a stark failure.

"I've called on the Administration to equip the Armed Forces of Ukraine with the defensive military capabilities that they need to stave off Russian aggression, such as UAVs, Counter-Battery Radar, secure communications equipment, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. I asked the President how his Administration assesses the needs and capabilities of Ukrainian forces and responds to their requests, and how the aid the U.S has provided fulfills the objectives of our overall strategy. The response I received was very disappointing and reflects a troubling lack of urgency in addressing the crisis in Ukraine or responding to bipartisan Congressional concerns regarding the success of our current strategy. When this Administration can't answer the simple question of what capabilities the Ukrainian government has requested and refuses to provide any substantive information on what assistance the U.S. has delivered, we have a significant problem."

Recently, Portman, along with U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), wrote to the Administration regarding their concerns over increased Russian aggression. The Administration's response can be found here. Portman and Cardin traveled to Ukraine earlier this year to show support for the Ukrainian people and to serve as election monitors for their presidential elections.

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