Welch on Ukraine: “We must reaffirm our continued dedication to the work of those that came before us to build the alliances that have preserved the peace in Europe.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) took to the Senate floor this week with a bipartisan coalition including Senators Shaheen (D-N.H.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) to reaffirm Congress’ bipartisan support

for the people of Ukraine in its battle against Russian aggression. In his remarks, Senator Welch stressed the importance of America’s commitment to protect territorial integrity and security in Europe. He also discussed the need to strengthen our European alliances, which have preserved peace across the continent for 80 years.  

“We cannot take for granted that we’ve had this peace in Europe for 80 years…It was a result of that sustained commitment of members of this body—on both sides of the aisle, of presidents of both parties. Our duty is to keep that alliance united at this stressful time. If Ukraine fails, we should not assume that the European security and our alliances there will survive. World War II ended 80 years ago—we’ve got to keep it 80 more,” said Senator Welch.  

“Turning away from Ukraine now, when it needs us most, could mean the end of that 80-year success story. We must stand by Ukraine and against that unlawful invasion by Mr. Putin. We must stand by our European allies, and we must reaffirm our continued dedication to the work of those who served here before us—to build the alliances, to sustain the alliances—that have preserved the peace in Europe. Their future—and ours—depends on it.” 

Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

Watch the entire floor bloc here. 

Last week, Senate Republicans rejected a resolution offered by Sen. Welch reaffirming the United States’ support for the principle that no country can take another by force or threat of force. In his remarks on the resolution, Welch reaffirmed support for the people of Ukraine as they defend their country against Russia’s unjust invasion. 

On the third anniversary of the Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Senator Welch joined Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and his colleagues in introducing the Protecting our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act, legislation that would provide temporary guest status to Ukrainians and their immediate family members who are already in the United States through the “Uniting for Ukraine” parole process. The bill allows Ukrainians to stay and work in the U.S. until the Secretary of State determines that hostilities in Ukraine have ceased, and it is safe for them to return. 

Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media.