WASHINGTON, D.C. – February will mark two years since Russia invaded Ukraine. The US has helped provide billions in aid to Ukraine to defeat Russia but continued aid is up in the air. We spoke with advocates who have been rallying for Ukraine ever since the first day of the Russian invasion. They will continue rallying until there’s a clear path for a Ukrainian victory.
Standing outside the US Capitol building, Catherine Pedersen and Robert Harvey hold the Ukrainian flag and signs in support of Ukraine.
“We have been supporting Ukraine strongly but that support needs to continue both because it’s the right thing to do and because our security relies on it,” said Pedersen.
Pedersen and others created the grassroots organization Ukraine Rally DC. You’ll see them every day rallying at places like the White House or Capitol, day or night, pressuring US policymakers to continue supporting Ukraine and to pass supplemental funding to help Ukraine win the war against Russia.
“Ukraine’s brave resistance has been possible because of US support,” said Harvey. “US aid to Ukraine could save tens of thousands of lives.”
The White House has requested tens of billions in additional aid for Ukraine but republicans want to tie in Ukraine aid to changes in US border policy. Policymakers stress Ukraine doesn’t have time to spare while Washington tries to strike a deal.
Pedersen worries if the US stops aiding Ukraine, our adversaries like Russia and China could create more problems for us internationally and here at home; including the possibility of another era of America at war.
“That is what’s at stake: America’s future not just in a long-term sense but in a very immediate sense our economy, our soldiers and our government spending is going to be affected by this if we do not help Ukraine,” said Pedersen.
While negotiations for the additional aid for Ukraine continues, these advocates plan on staying out here for as long as they need to.
“Until we feel that our national security is safe,” said Pedersen. “Until we feel Ukraine is on a clear, definitive path to victory.”
