U.S. senators Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito were among those who spoke today with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who continues to ask for a range of help as his country remains under a Russian siege.
“WV continues to support the free people of Ukraine,” Capito wrote on Twitter.
West Virginia’s two senators participated on a teleconference call with almost 300 members of Congress and Zelensky.
“It was an honor to hear directly from President Zelensky this morning as he continues to lead his nation in defense against a senseless and illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin. President Zelensky has shown immense bravery and leadership in a time of crisis,” Manchin stated today.
National news reports indicated Zelensky asked for a ban imports of Russian oil and for more jets to defend the skies above Ukraine.
Manchin, chairman of the Senate Energy Committee, focused on the oil issue. This past week, Manchin joined 20 bipartisan senators, including Capito, in introducing the Ban Russian Energy Imports Act, which would prohibit the importation of Russian crude oil, petroleum, petroleum products, liquefied natural gas and coal.
Today, Manchin said, “I questioned President Zelensky about the need for the United States to ban Russian energy imports and he wholeheartedly agreed.” Manchin said he pledged continued support. “This includes supporting the transfer of Soviet-era military jets from Poland and any other ally to Ukraine’s military forces to counter Russian jets and cruise missiles.”
Capito also participated in the teleconferenced session, expressing admiration for the efforts to fight off the Russian advance.
On Thursday’s MetroNews “Talkline,” Capito emphasized the importance of standing strong with Ukraine.
“Number one, I think we need to be as supportive and even more supportive than we have been,” she said. “What we have been doing and what we have done in the past is provide them with weaponry, provide them with advice as they move through.”
She described provisions of humanitarian aid and lethal aid such as javelins and stingers.
“There’s just overwhelming force and destruction by the Russians. It’s very troubling,” Capito said.