Call to Deter Russia’s Aggression and Support Ukraine
To Members of the U.S. Congress:
As members of the Belarus Freedom Forum, an advocacy organization dedicated to advancing a democratic breakthrough in Belarus, we believe that the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights are universal values that unite us all in opposition to the imperial ambitions of dictators and authoritarian regimes.
In defense of these values, we call on Members of the U.S. Congress to continue support for Ukraine and the courageous Ukrainian people, who have been defending their nation against Russia’s unprovoked February 2022 full-scale invasion. Ukraine is fighting not only for its survival but also for its dignity, sovereignty, and the right of self-determination. No one should deny Ukraine its territorial integrity, the freedom to decide its own future and to build alliances that reflect the will of its citizens. No nation or people should be held hostage to Russia’s imperialist ambitions.
We call on Members of the U.S. Congress to deter Russia’s aggression and stand up to its destructive, authoritarian, revanchist agenda. Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine is not an isolated incident but part of a decades-long pattern of hostile behavior toward its neighbors. From violating the territorial integrity of Georgia in 2008 to the illegal occupation of Eastern Ukraine and annexation of Crimea in 2014, Russia has consistently demonstrated its willingness to use force to achieve its imperial ambitions.
Russia has abundantly demonstrated that it will stop at nothing - military force, nuclear blackmail, violence against civilians, lies, and repression - to achieve its goals. In the territories it occupies or controls, Russia systematically dismantles democratic institutions, imposes political coercion, disregards international law, and institutes the process of forced Russification. Russia’s actions serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked authoritarianism and the urgent need for the international community to stand firm in defense of freedom, sovereignty, and the rule of law.
The current turmoil in Belarus serves as a grim warning of what happens when a country falls under Russia’s control. Once a sovereign state with aspirations for a democratic future, Belarus, under the illegitimate ruler Alexander Lukashenka, has become subservient to Moscow. Under Moscow’s protection, Lukashenka’s regime has stifled the economy, violently suppressed political opposition, dismantled Belarus’ civil society and free press, ultimately eroded the country’s sovereignty, and involved Belarus in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Belarus’ transformation into Russia’s vassal state and one of the most repressive dictatorships in the world has led to systemic repression and human rights abuse. This is a cautionary tale of what Russia seeks to impose on Ukraine and other countries in the region.
Ukraine is the latest target in Russia’s long campaign to dismantle democratic movements and extend its sphere of influence. These actions are not merely regional concerns; they are direct challenges to the international system that the United States has worked tirelessly to uphold for eighty years. Supporting Ukraine is not just about defending its sovereignty; it is about preventing the spread of this oppressive authoritarian model and preserving the freedom of nations to choose their own futures. If Ukraine were to lose this war and follow Belarus’ fate, it would embolden Russia. A victory in Ukraine would rally Russia to destabilize Europe, challenge the NATO alliance, and undermine U.S. leadership on the global stage. Furthermore, letting Russia win would set the precedent for other authoritarian adversaries. China, Iran, and North Korea, who are closely watching the international community’s response, would feel emboldened to follow in Russia’s path and challenge the global principles of freedom, democracy, economic security through self-determination, and human rights we hold dear. U.S. national security is strengthened by supporting Ukraine, which has demonstrated its strength, resilience and determination to repel Russia. The cost of supporting Ukraine now and deterring future authoritarian aggression is far less than the cost of permitting Russian expansionism to continue unchecked.
The United States has long been a beacon of hope for those fighting against tyranny and oppression. Our support for Ukraine is a testament to our commitment to these values. It is also a recognition that healthy democracies possess a capacity to innovate and overcome threats; a truth that the United States has modeled since its founding. We urge you to continue providing Ukraine with the military, economic, and humanitarian assistance it needs to prevail in this fight. Additionally, we encourage you to advocate for sustained diplomatic efforts to isolate Russia and hold it accountable for its actions. The security of our allies, the stability of Europe, and the reputation of the United States depend on it.
Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your continued leadership in defending democracy and resisting tyranny.