Washington, D.C. — The Congressional Ukraine Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Andy Harris (R-MD), Mike Quigley (D-IL), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), released the following statement applauding the inclusion in several appropriations bills funding for vital programs that support key efforts to strengthen democracy in Ukraine.

“We are thrilled the House increased U.S. security and development assistance to Ukraine for Fiscal Year 2021,” said the Chairs of the Caucus. “In doing so, the U.S. continues to demonstrate the American people’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people’s prosperous and democratic future, free from Russian aggression. With this increase in security assistance, Ukraine will be able to strengthen its naval defenses in the strategic Black Sea and beyond.

The development and anti-corruption assistance will be crucial in the fight against the influence of the rapacious oligarchs, whose greed stifles Ukraine’s forward progress. We look forward to working with our Senate colleagues to ensure these increases pass Congress and make it to the President’s desk for signature.”  

Ukraine Funding:

Department of State

1. $255 million, an increase from $250 for Development and Anti-Corruption Assistance
2. $115 million for Foreign Military Financing
3. $2.9 million for International Military Education and Training
4. $15 million for Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs
5. $30 million of International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement
6. Includes key language to boost care for Ukrainian veterans, enhance Ukraine’s cyber-defenses and energy security, strengthen women’s agricultural microfinancing initiatives, and to support creation of Ukrainian Rada Research Service to boost Ukraine’s reform efforts. 

Department of Defense

7. Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative: $275 million, an increase from $250 million
8. Includes language to ensure Ukraine further adopts and implements defense reforms and reduces corruption in the security services.