[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 152 (Wednesday, September 12, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1229]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




INTRODUCTION OF A JOINT RESOLUTION, PROVIDING FOR THE DESIGNATION OF A 
 FREEDOM TO CHOOSE THEIR DESTINY FOR THE NATIONS OF EASTERN EUROPE AND 
                              EURASIA WEEK

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 12, 2018

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join my fellow co-chairs of 
the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus to introduce a Joint 
Resolution, which reaffirms the sovereignty and the freedom to choose 
their destiny for the people of Europe and Eurasia.
  Since the fall of communism, the countries of Eastern Europe and 
Eurasia have made great progress in developing democratic institutions, 
free markets, and strong civil societies. Many have demonstrated their 
commitment to these important ideals through their accession in liberal 
institutions such as the European Union and that NATO Alliance, which 
are critical to our national security.
  Indeed, the American people have stood with freedom-lovers across 
this region, to spread the blessings of liberty and democracy to these 
nations. For this reason since 1959, the President of the United States 
has proclaimed the third week of July as ``Captive Nations Week.'' This 
very special occasion shined a light on the plight of nations oppressed 
by Soviet Russian regime, and continues to reaffirm America's 
commitment to those dedicated to democracy, rule of law, freedom, and 
justice.
  Tragically, Russia's thirst for power would seek to thwart the 
forward progress of these nations. Russia seeks to undermine democratic 
institutions, and thus strengthen is dictatorial and tyrannical hold on 
that region through hybrid warfare. This includes election meddling, 
disinformation campaigns, extrajudicial assassinations, the 
intimidation of journalists, and other forms of despicable behavior. 
Russia invaded and illegally occupies regions of Ukraine and Georgia, 
and seeks to rip away these nations' ability to choose their democratic 
future. It is a shame to have such bestial behavior on this earth.
  This resolution builds on the ``Captive Nations Week'' Resolution, 
and invites the President through an annual proclamation to set the 
record straight that all nations have the right to self-determination, 
territorial sovereignty, and to choose their own destinies. It sends a 
message to our partners in the region that we stand with those that 
embrace liberty, instead of those that seek to tear it down. By 
standing together, we ensure a more democratic, secure, and prosperous 
world.

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