Congressman Pappas says about the influence of Ukrainian President Zelensky, “That’s the kind of leadership where someone who is in the fight, who puts country first, is exactly why what we’re seeing in Ukraine is so inspiring to so many Americans.”
In an interview with WGIR’s Chris Ryan, the Representative from New Hampshire’s First Congressional District, Chris Pappas, discusses the Russian invasion of Ukraine; praises the people of Ukraine for the defense of their country from Russian aggression; analyzes the effects of the sanctions which have been placed on Russia; anticipates the topics covered by President Biden in tonight’s State of the Union Speech; and evaluates the influence of Ukrainian President Zelensky’s leadership style.
As we await Joe Biden’s State of the Union Speech, Congressman Pappas expects that the President will discuss the situation in Ukraine; our country’s status in the battle against COVID; how we will deal with inflation, especially energy costs; and trying to support legislation like the gas tax holiday and the America Competes Act.
Congressman Pappas states that the crisis in Ukraine is entirely the work of Vladimir Putin who has invaded Ukraine despite the cost to his own country’s economy and well-being. The Congressman describes the devaluation of Russian currency, the ruble, and the decline of the Russian stock market.
The bravery and determination of the Ukrainian people in their desperate struggle is praised by Congressman Pappas.
“What we are seeing from the Ukrainians is truly inspiring—the way that they have stood strong for their country in a very patriotic way. They’re not just standing for Ukrainian nationalism. They’re standing for democracy.”
Congressman Pappas believes that the economic sanctions which have been placed on Russia are working. He describes Russia as a kleptocracy, a government which steals the wealth of the country for a few rich individuals—the oligarchs. The Congressman wants the painful effects of the sanctions to touch Putin and his cronies.
Ultimately, once the oligarchs start complaining, the Congressman thinks that Putin will come to the negotiating table and deal in good faith with the Ukrainians.