Members of Congress comment on Ukrainian president's speech (04/10/05)

Members of Congress comment on Ukrainian president's speech

Following are the reactions of several members of the House of Representatives to President Viktor Yushchenko's address to the joint meeting of Congress.

Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio):

Today, the people of the United States warmly welcome the first democratically elected president of the young, independent nation of Ukraine. It has been a profound experience to stand at the edge of history with the free election of a new president. And today it was my great honor to help welcome him [as one of the four Democrats chosen to escort him into the session hall] to the United States as Ukraine ushers in a new era of human possibility.

None of us will forget the sight of hundreds of thousands of citizens, risking their political lives for a democratic transition. President Yushchenko is leading Ukraine towards a freer, more prosperous era. His presence today in the U.S. Capitol reminds us that America has a moral responsibility and indeed, a duty, to help plant democracy where it seeks to root.

Rep. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.):

I was deeply honored to escort President Yushchenko into the chamber of the House of Representatives today and moved by his remarks. His election sent a powerful message across the globe that the democratic rights of all people must be respected. Viktor Yushchenko literally risked his life for his country, and the Orange Revolution he led was an inspiration both to his countrymen and to the world.

I was proud to stand with him today, and as a senior member of the House International Relations Committee, I offer the Ukrainian people my continued support in their ongoing struggle to strengthen their economy and establish a permanent, lasting democracy.

Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.):

This morning, it was a humbling honor and pleasure to shake hands with and to hear Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko speak before a joint session of Congress. Like so many Ukrainians who have immigrated to America, and to our part of New Jersey, in search of a better life for their families, President Yushchenko is a symbol of courage.

At a critical moment in his nation's history, he survived a threat on his life by those who despised freedom, led an Orange Revolution for democratic change that rippled across Ukraine, and today stands as a model for other nations who also seek to live free from tyranny. I am proud to call President Yushchenko an ally and friend of the United States.

FOR THE RECORD: Yushchenko's address to joint meeting of Congress

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