119th Congress

Earlier today, it was reported by the Washington Post that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is holding up the transfer of U.S.-made Patriot interceptor missiles from European countries to Ukraine. The missiles are a crucial component of Ukraine's air defenses, protecting civilians from Russian missile strikes. The interceptors were already sold to European allies under agreements that require U.S. approval before they can be transferred to Ukraine.

Earlier today, First Lady Melania Trump posted a list of her “5 Pillars of Women’s Health Innovation” on social media. This post followed President Trump’s signing of an Executive Order that the White House claims will “advance women’s health.” House Appropriations Committee and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) issued the following statement in response to the First Lady:

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: