Dear Orly:

Thank you for contacting me to share your views about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.  I appreciate the time you took to write, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched an unjustified and unprovoked invasion of the independent and democratic state of Ukraine.  The attack began after Russia had mobilized more than 150,000 military personnel along the Ukrainian border, and Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia would recognize the independence of two Russia-controlled areas in eastern Ukraine.  Since the fighting began, thousands of Ukrainians and Russians have been killed and millions of refugees have fled Ukraine for neighboring countries, leading to a humanitarian catastrophe in Europe.  You can read my statement on the beginning of the conflict here: https://sen.gov/L4Y7

The suffering in Ukraine, especially among civilians who have come under attack, is heart-wrenching.  I have been pleased that the response from the United States and our European and NATO allies against Russian belligerence has been unified and strong.  It is incumbent on all nations to ensure that we support the people of Ukraine and stand opposed to this Russian aggression.  To that end, on March 10, 2022, I was proud to vote in favor of the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2022, which included nearly $14 billion in humanitarian aid and military support for Ukraine in addition to other support that has been provided.  I have also supported levying strong multilateral sanctions against Russia, and the decision by private companies to pull their investments, close stores, and pause operations in Russia.  I am hopeful that diplomatic efforts will bring an end to the fighting as quickly as possible.

I support humanitarian support for Ukrainians remaining in their home country and those forced to leave.  I also support U.S. efforts to welcome Ukrainian refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict.  On March 3, 2022, the Biden Administration extended temporary protection status to Ukrainians already in the United States, allowing them to stay in the United States for an extended period of time.  If you or anyone you know is seeking evacuation assistance from Ukraine, please contact my San Francisco office by phone at 415-393-0707 or visit my website here: https://sen.gov/Y63X.

Please know that I am closely monitoring developments in Ukraine.  I have made careful note of your concerns and will keep them in mind should additional relevant legislation come before me in the Senate.

Once again, thank you for writing.  Should you have any other questions or comments, please call my Washington, D.C., office at (202) 224-3841 or visit my website at feinstein.senate.gov.  You can also follow me online at YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.

Best regards.