DeLauro Statement on Reports of Trump Administration Weakening Ukraine’s Defenses as Russian Attacks Intensify

WASHINGTON – According to a new report, the White House issued the order to restrict Starlink service over Ukraine, interrupting missile-defense systems that protect civilians from Russian attacks. Starshield—the version of Starlink used by the military—is provided by SpaceX, a company owned by Trump ally and Republican mega-donor Elon Musk. The interruption comes as Russia increases their attacks on civilian targets. Civilian casualties in Ukraine were 85 percent higher this September compared to last, and more than 2,500 civilians have been killed in Ukraine since January, according to the United Nations.

House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) issued the following statement:

“The White House directive to choke off a crucial component of Ukrainian missile defenses is appalling. The Trump administration is holding Ukraine’s hands behind its back even as Russian attacks intensify. Doing nothing was bad enough. Now the Trump administration is actually helping Russia in their senseless war of aggression, putting countless innocent civilians in even greater danger. America’s position on the world stage has become unrecognizable under this administration. President Trump is aiding our adversaries, abandoning our allies, and enriching himself, while American families pay higher prices for everything from healthcare and housing to gas and groceries.

“This summer, I visited Ukraine along with several other members of Congress. Everywhere we went, the need for American leadership in support of our Ukrainian allies was clear. When Democrats retake control of the House in January, we will fight to provide this support and stand up to dictators like Vladimir Putin.”

Ranking Member DeLauro’s statement on her trip to Ukraine can be found here. An op-ed she wrote on her trip and the need for continued support for Ukraine can be found here.

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