(For Immediate Release, February 21, 2025)
Three years ago, Russia began its unprovoked full-scale invasion and war against Ukraine. Russia’s campaign of
terror continues unabated and is aided by accomplices in Iran, North Korea, and China.

February 24th marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and 11 years since Russian forces invaded Crimea. Ukrainian communities across America will hold rallies and events to commemorate this day. The Baltic communities will be there to stand in strong support with Ukraine.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) recognizes the just cause and bravery of the Ukrainian people in its fight for freedom and sovereignty. We continue to support Ukraine to ensure its ultimate victory. Americans of Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian descent understand the brazen imperial ambitions behind Russian aggression, as the Baltic countries also suffered long under Moscow’s brutal occupation and rule.

When the Baltic countries regained their independence after the fall of the Soviet Union, a major goal was to join NATO, for the security guarantees the alliance offered would shield them from future Russian aggression. That became a reality in 2004 and has proven its worth since then. Ukraine should be afforded the same opportunity. This would signal explicitly to Russia that the alliance holds firm, and that Russia’s aggression would be met with strength. Ukraine must participate in and agree to any proposals regarding ending the war and the provision of security guarantees. Anything less would leave the door open to Russia so that it can resume its aggressive tactics in the future with impunity, endangering our allies, and NATO members, and entangling the United States itself.

The recent rhetoric and fictitious statements emanating from the President and administration of the United States are highly discouraging and indicate a dangerous policy shift concerning Ukraine and our European allies. This shift would move them closer to Russia’s murderous orbit. America would be culpable and complicit in the destruction of the international rules-based order that it helped to create following World War II. Instead of being a shining light for others, the United States would suffer the ignominy of being on the wrong side of history.

We denounce Russia’s antiquated worldview that endorses imperial revanchism. Standing for freedom and siding with Ukraine against an aggressor should not be a partisan issue. The difference should be clear. Putin can only win if the United States does not have the resolve, fortitude, and moral clarity to help secure Ukraine’s victory.

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The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) represents the Estonian American National Council, Inc., The American Latvian Association (ALA), the Lithuanian American Council, Inc.