[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 6, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             UKRAINE CYBERSECURITY COOPERATION ACT OF 2017

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 5, 2018

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 
1997, the ``Ukraine Cybersecurity Cooperation Act,'' legislation that 
will lead to greater cooperation between the United States and Ukraine 
on matters of cybersecurity and require State Department reporting to 
Congress on best practices to protect against future cyber-attacks.
  In recent years, Ukraine has been the target of an increasing number 
of cyber-attacks that have infiltrated state institutions and critical 
infrastructure to the effect of undermining its democracy.
  It is past time we step up to work with our ally Ukraine in 
furtherance of our mutual interest in cyber security, the modern 
battlefield.
  Ukraine is a frontline for nation state-directed cyber-attacks, which 
are potential harbingers of attacks on the United States.
  Helping Ukraine strengthen its cyber defenses will not only protect 
Ukraine from future attacks, but it will also help the United States 
develop new and more effective technologies and strategies.
  As a former member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I am 
pleased to stand in support of the effort to advance the strategic 
interests of both the United States and Ukraine on a bipartisan basis.
  Cybersecurity is a complex and serious national and economic security 
issue for any nation.
  For years, Ukraine has been under siege from nation-state cyber-
attacks that have sought to weaken its government and undermine hopes 
for an open and democratic society.
  The United States must play an important role in this fight.
  By not adequately responding and adapting to these cyber-threats in 
Eastern Europe, our nation is both letting down an ally as well as 
failing to take proactive steps to protect itself.
  Standing strong with our trusted allies in the cause of freedom is 
liberty's best defense.
  I am proud lo work with my colleague, Congressman Boyle, in 
encouraging cooperation between the United States and Ukraine on this 
front, and look forward to continuing to work with members of the 
Foreign Affairs Committee to keep our focus on this 21st century 
battle.
  I urge all Members to support H.R. 1997, the ``Ukraine Cybersecurity 
Cooperation Act.''

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