South Asheville News

U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) recently visited Ukraine to witness firsthand the impact of Russia's invasion. During his trip, Edwards emphasized the urgent need to safeguard American and global security against Russian aggression.

During his visit, Edwards met with various stakeholders, including U.S. troops deployed to Poland, government officials in Moldova, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He also engaged in discussions with foreign leaders, U.S. embassy staff, military leaders, and war crimes victims.

Edwards expressed his concerns about the deteriorating situation in Ukraine, stating, “The Ukrainian democracy, as imperfect as it may be, is quickly crumbling to Vladimir Putin, a card-carrying KGB Marxist murderer with no regard for human life." He highlighted the atrocities being committed in Ukraine, such as torture, murder, kidnapping of children, sexual assault as a weapon of war, and persecution of Christians.

The congressman stressed the importance of upholding principles of freedom, self-governance, and human dignity, stating, "Our nation can no longer allow itself to fall prey to Putin’s propaganda about this war." He called for active engagement and cooperation to counter Putin's influence and protect global security.

Edwards also emphasized the need for the United States to play a proactive role in addressing the crisis in Ukraine, stating, "Now is not the time for America to hide in isolationism, as Putin is trying to manipulate us to do." He expressed his commitment to working with his House colleagues to develop strategies to counter Putin's aggression and support Ukraine.

In Poland, Edwards met with U.S. soldiers, including Brigadier General Jerry Baird, to discuss the ongoing efforts to deter Russian aggression in the region. Thousands of American troops are currently stationed in Poland as part of NATO's defense strategy against Russian threats.

Upon his return to Washington, Edwards pledged to share his observations and insights from his visit to Ukraine and collaborate with fellow lawmakers on ways to address the security challenges posed by Russia's actions.