UKRAINE
On Thursday evening, I had a call with Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to discuss the dangerous situation unfolding in Ukraine and financial sanctions to deter any further aggression. This morning, I met with Ft. Hood leadership to get an update on readiness efforts and the resource needs of our service members.
We continue to pray for the innocent people of Ukraine. For decades, they have pursued democracy and freedom, and that is worth defending. Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine is a violation of human decency and international law, and is absolutely reprehensible. Putin's aggression toward Ukraine and NATO cannot go unchecked. The United States must project leadership and strength to deter not only Russia, but other adversaries that are closely watching. The U.S. and our allies must impose sanctions that will cripple Russia's defense sector and cut them off from the global economy. In addition, we must end Nord Stream II and support our NATO allies in Europe.
This attack has reinforced the notion that energy independence is a national security issue. It's more important than ever that President Biden reverse course on his green policies and unleash America's energy industry, so that we do not rely on Russian exports and neither do our friends in Europe.
To stay updated on the events in Ukraine or if you are a U.S. citizen in need of assistance, visit my website.