President Biden praised the courage of the people of Ukraine while pledging continued U.S. support in their fight against Russia’s war of aggression.
In his first State of the Union address to Congress, Biden on March 1 highlighted how the United States and democratic allies are united with Ukraine.
“Throughout our history we’ve learned this lesson: When dictators do not pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos; they keep moving.” And the costs and threats to America and the world keep rising, he said.
The president said Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade a democratic nation without justification will be judged as a failure.
“Putin’s latest attack on Ukraine was premeditated and totally unprovoked. He rejected repeated efforts at diplomacy. He thought the West and NATO wouldn’t respond. He thought he could divide us at home,” Biden said. “Putin was wrong. We are ready.”
The NATO alliance of 30 nations has condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in the loss of life, enormous human suffering and destruction.
The United States and European allies are providing Ukraine with humanitarian and defensive assistance.
“We’ll continue to aid the Ukrainian people as they defend their country and help ease their suffering.”
The president said the courage and determination of the Ukrainian people inspire the world.
“In the battle between democracy and autocracies, democracies are rising to the moment and the world is clearly choosing the side of peace and security.”
