Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) released the following statement on the Trump administration’s proposed Russia-Ukraine peace plan:
“In 2014, Russia invaded Ukraine and took control of Crimea. The world did not react. It’s now been more than three years since Russia launched a brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine and ignited the worst fighting in Europe since World War II. The Ukrainian people have stood their ground, paying an immense toll to defend their country and sovereignty, and are waiting for the day when lasting peace will be achieved.
“The latest proposed plan put forth by President Trump — a Russian proposal — is a non-starter. It would once again reward Russian aggression with Ukrainian land and give Russia time to recover from its military and economic losses. The plan would force Ukraine to give up vast parts of territory that thousands have died defending, including even areas Russia has failed to capture after years of war. It would also force Ukraine to reduce the size of its military and end the flow of western lethal aid.
“All of this in exchange for promises that Putin won’t invade Ukraine again and to allow the United States to profit off the rebuilding of Ukraine’s economy and society. This is a great deal for Russia, but more than that, it is a betrayal to Ukraine by the U.S.
“The deal also prohibits Ukraine from joining NATO and purports to speak for the entire NATO alliance in foreclosing any expansion in the future. In acceding to the Kremlin’s fondest desires and demands, it is also a shameful betrayal of NATO.
“President Trump must work with both Democrats and Republicans in Congress, alongside our Ukrainian and NATO partners, to create a lasting peace deal for Ukraine that does not reward Russian violations of international law and commission of war crimes. We must achieve a deal that ensures Ukraine retains the ability to defend itself and a deal that will benefit the Ukrainian people in the long term.
“Americans see this proposal for what it is: a Russian ploy to get the United States to turn its back on Ukraine. Let this be a moment to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Ukrainian people in their hour of greatest need.
“It is in our national security interest to see a strong, sovereign, independent and democratic Ukraine and to prevent Russia from committing further aggression. This proposed deal would sacrifice American and Ukrainian national security interests.”
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