Today, March 16th, 2022, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02) joined Reps. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) and Dusty Johnson (SD-00) to introduce legislation that would collectively award the distinguished Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) to the Defenders of Ukraine, in recognition of their crucial role in the defense of democratic values and against Russian President Putin’s aggression.
“Over the last few weeks, the Ukrainian people have shown the world what real courage looks like. Against all odds, the Ukrainians have held their ground against Russia’s illegal invasion,” said Miller-Meeks. “Our legislation is the least we can do to honor them. I am proud to stand in full support of the people of Ukraine.”
“Those fighting for democracy in Ukraine, and for regional security in Europe, deserve this medal,” said Spartz. “Putin, his generals, and his cronies must know the United States Congress stands firm behind all those fighting against his illegal and unprovoked war in Ukraine.”
“The Ukrainian people are truly resilient,” said Johnson. “Despite looking down the barrel of the Russian military, thousands of Ukrainians answered the call to defend their homeland and volunteered to protect their republic. The United States stands behind Ukraine and is opposed to Putin’s act of war – our House Resolution makes that clear."
Background:
The medal would be presented to the democratically elected government of Ukraine on behalf of the Ukrainian people.
The CGM is an award bestowed by Congress and is the highest civilian award in the United States. The decoration is awarded to an individual, or group of individuals, who perform an outstanding deed or act of service for the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States.
Miller-Meeks has cosponsored several pieces of legislation intended to sanction Russia, its government, and its leadership, including the GUARD Act, the Putin Accountability Act, the American Energy Independence from Russia Act, the Prohibition on Imports of Russian Oil Act, condemning Russia’s actions, the Make Russia Pay Act, the Ban Russian Energy Imports Act, and sanctioning the Russian Parliament.
Original source can be found here
