Statement on the Crisis in the Ukraine

Statement from Congressman Brendan Boyle (D-PA-13) on the crisis in Ukraine:

"There is no question that Russian troops are terrorizing Ukrainian citizens, and Ukraine should defend itself against those obvious occupation attempts. The best options include both economic and lethal defensive assistance."

"In 2014, Congress gave President Obama the authority to offer both economic and lethal defensive assistance with the Ukraine Freedom Support Act and I join my Democratic and Republican colleagues in urging the President to take these crucial steps. Now is the time to use that authority."

"We also have to keep in mind that a stable and prosperous Ukrainian economy is essential for the future of Ukrainian democracy. The President has pledged up to $2 billion in loan guarantees to Ukraine and his budget added $100 million in aid over the last year alone. Providing economic assistance today is a smart investment and it will provide Ukraine and Europe with security and prosperity for years to come. "