Leader Schumer Floor Remarks Condemning President Trump’s Response To Putin, Urging The President To Help Ukraine Defend Itself

Washington, D.C. – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor to call out the Trump administration for being incapable of being an active mediator between Russia and Ukraine to prevent further escalation in the war. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks, which can also be viewed here:

Yesterday, Donald Trump posted online that Vladimir Putin “very strongly” said “he will have to respond” to the recent attacks on Russian airfields by Ukraine.

Here’s what President Trump should have said to Vladimir Putin. He should’ve said, Vladimir Putin, end this war now. Stop killing Ukrainian civilians. Stop your illegal invasion.

Instead, Donald Trump is busy announcing Putin’s military plans like a press secretary.

Why is he acting like a bystander?

He’s the President of the United States. Donald Trump should show some backbone.

Here’s what the president needs to do: his administration has the power to help Ukraine defend itself with air defense systems, specifically ammunition for its Patriot systems that the U.S. or our European allies can provide.

Ukraine has said these air defense systems are the best tools for protecting civilian life from Russian missile strikes. We have to do all we can to get them these very needed air defense systems ASAP.

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