Murkowski, Portman unveil resolution to support Ukraine’s reconstruction

U.S. Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Rob Portman (R-OH) recently signed on as cosponsors of a bipartisan resolution that would recognize the American people’s commitment to rebuilding Ukraine following Russia’s unprovoked war on the country.

“The United States must continue to play a leading role in the fight to defend democracy. Russia’s ruthless and illegal invasion of Ukraine is a threat to the global rules and norms we hold dear,” said Sen. Murkowski. “That is why I strongly support the defense of Ukraine — allowing them to take the fight to the Russians — rather than allowing Putin to expand his tyranny around the world. There will come a time when Ukraine will rebuild and as a global leader, we should join others and be there to help.”

House Resolution (H.Res.) 696, which U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) sponsored on June 23, would resolve that the United States remains committed to ensuring the long-term peace, prosperity and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and would recognize that an effective Ukrainian reconstruction effort can only be accomplished by working in concert with other nations and international bodies, according to the text of the resolution.

“Russia’s brutal and unjust war against Ukraine has caused horrible destruction and devastation to cities and towns all over the country, while also crippling Ukraine’s economy. As the leader of the free world, the United States must help its ally both now and once this war is over — so that Ukrainians may return home and rebuild their lives and their country,” Sen. Portman said. “I am pleased to support this resolution to show our commitment to our ally Ukraine and encourage all of my colleagues in the Senate to do the same.”

If enacted, H.Res. 696 also would encourage the U.S. government to lead an international group of allies to equitably contribute and provide Ukraine with a reconstruction assistance package toward increasing ties between nations that are seeking a stable international order to counter malign and rogue actors, the resolution says.

“I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution that recognizes our commitment to rebuilding and supporting the people of Ukraine and will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to put this resolution on the Senate floor,” said Sen. Manchin.