The Congressional Ukraine Caucus on Tuesday backed Ukraine’s ceasefire proposal and called on Russia to demonstrate “good faith” by accepting and respecting it.
In a statement, caucus co-chairs Marcy Kaptur, Brian Fitzpatrick, Mike Quigley and Joe Wilson said Ukraine had “extended an olive branch” with an immediate temporary ceasefire aimed at protecting human life and pursuing a just peace.
“In the face of Russia’s continued aggression, this proposal reflects the moral clarity of a free people: willing to seek peace, unwilling to surrender sovereignty, and determined to defend the dignity of their nation,” the lawmakers said.
The statement accused Russia of continuing to strike Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure and civilians while claiming to seek peace.
“A ceasefire cannot be selective, conditional, or timed for political convenience. It must be real, verifiable, and honored in good faith,” the caucus said.
The lawmakers called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept Ukraine’s ceasefire beginning Tuesday night, saying the Kremlin faced a choice between continuing a devastating war or taking “a meaningful step toward peace.”
They also said Democrats and Republicans remained united in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and defense of international law.
“The path to peace is open. The responsibility to take it rests with the Kremlin,” the statement said. “America stands with the people of Ukraine.”