Russia Bears Ultimate Responsibility for Destruction of Kakhovka Dam

The Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus – Representatives Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), and Andy Harris (R-MD-01) – released on June 7 the following statement on the breached Kakhovka Dam emergency.

“The breaching of the Kakhovka Dam is a catastrophic humanitarian and environmental disaster. Communities which have already suffered immeasurably at the hands of vladimir putin and russia’s illegal war of aggression, now face deadly and destructive floods. The safety of those living in the surrounding areas is of vital importance and we are encouraged by the rapid response of Ukrainian evacuation efforts, even as they are undertaken on the active frontline across from hostile russian forces.

“This disaster demands accountability and a decisive response. As the cruel aggressor in this war, russia bears ultimate responsibility for the destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure and the displacement of communities which have long called the areas down river of the dam home. The United States and our allies pledge our support for Ukraine’s efforts to respond to this emergency, and continue to stand with all Ukrainians who stand on the frontline of this fight to save democracy and freedom.”