Helsinki Commission Co-Chairman Cohen Defends Sovereignty and Independence of Ukraine
Says “the Russians are looking for trouble…Inevitably they will lose.”
WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Co-Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, better known as the Helsinki Commission, today spoke out forcefully in defense of freedom for Ukraine as Russian forces mass at its borders for a possible invasion.
In his opening statement, Co-Chairman Cohen said in part:
"The very fact that we are holding this critically important hearing is unbelievable – that we're at the stage of some type of major possible war in Europe, a subject that should have been left in the Dark Ages, not part of the future of mankind…
"Putin is threatening his neighbor Ukraine simply because they dare pursue the path of democracy, accountable governance, and trans-Atlantic integration. It's a developing democracy; it's not perfect, of course…and can only become a better democracy if allowed to breathe, and live, and be free…
"He won't stop at Ukraine…The Russians are looking for trouble and, even if their tanks win, they will lose. Inevitably, they will lose."
See Co-Chairman Cohen's entire opening statement here.
In his questioning of witnesses, Congressman Cohen asked about Putin's long-term strategy, what he has gotten out of his time as the focus of world attention, and whether he can back down. He also asked about the timing of allied plans to apply serious sanctions to the Russian economy.
See his questioning of expert witnesses here.
Co-Chairman Cohen addressed Putin directly at the end of today's hearing, suggesting he pour himself some vodka, enjoy the Winter Olympics, and "chill."
Witnesses at the hearing today were:
- Dr. Fiona Hill, Senior Fellow, Center on the United States and Europe, The Brookings Institution;
- Lieutenant General (Retired) Ben Hodges, Pershing Chair, Center for European Policy Analysis;
- Ambassador (Retired) William B. Taylor, Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace.
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