Transatlantic leaders unite to support Ukraine, Belarus, and Georgia in fight for democracy

US Senator Ben Cardin, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined European counterparts this week in reaffirming unwavering support for Ukraine, Belarus’ democratic forces, and the Georgian people in their shared struggle against authoritarianism.

In a unified statement, Senator Cardin and leaders from foreign affairs committees across Europe emphasized their commitment to defending democracy and human rights in the face of growing threats. The statement was co-signed by Peeter Tali, Chair of the Estonian European Union Affairs Committee; Lia Quartapelle, Vice President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies’ Foreign Affairs Committee; Ruslanas Baranovas and Žygimantas Pavilionis, Deputy Chairs of the Lithuanian European and Foreign Affairs Committees; Radoslaw Fogiel, Deputy Chair of the Polish Foreign Affairs Committee; Carlos Rojas Garcia, Vice President of the Spanish Congress of Deputies’ Foreign Affairs Committee; and Oleksandr Merezhko, Chair of the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada’s Foreign Affairs Committee.

“Thirty-four years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, we take pride in the historic levels of freedom across the continent and remain committed to a Europe that is whole, free, democratic, sovereign, and at peace,” the statement reads. “Yet, that vision faces grave threats as a coalition of forces opposed to Euro-Atlantic democracy – led by Vladimir Putin and supported by regimes in Iran, North Korea, and the People’s Republic of China – continues its brutal assault on Ukraine.”

The leaders highlighted the ongoing struggle of innocent civilians in Ukraine, who continue to endure violence and devastation. They reiterated the need for urgent security assistance to Ukraine, a clear path toward NATO membership, and robust international security guarantees, including preparations for a potential peacekeeping mission.

“Ukraine’s fight is also the fight of Belarus’ democratic forces and the people of Georgia,” the lawmakers said, emphasizing the broader significance of these struggles in shaping Europe’s democratic future. The leaders condemned Aleksandr Lukashenka’s sham elections in Belarus and expressed solidarity with Georgians defending their Euro-Atlantic aspirations amidst violent crackdowns by the Georgian Dream government.

The statement also calls for strong measures, including targeted financial sanctions, against those responsible for suppressing peaceful protests and violating human rights in Belarus and Georgia.

In closing, the leaders declared their steadfast support for democracy and human rights in the region: “Glory to Ukraine. Long Live Belarus. Georgia belongs in Europe.”