Udall Foundation Reauthorization Act of 2023

Floor Speech

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Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, before he leaves the floor, I want to thank my colleague from Colorado. He has been steadfast in his support of the Ukrainian effort, and it makes a difference. I think we all have to speak out with what we are facing. We should have appropriated the money long ago to stand behind the people of Ukraine. And the fact that they are now in a moment of history where their fate may be decided really underlines the importance of the statements of this Senator.

So while this bill we are going to be voting on this evening covers so many areas, it still leaves a terrible gap, not only in our support for Ukraine but also for the humanitarian assistance which was part of our efforts.

When we read of the terrible humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and other places, we realize the United States has to help provide water, food, medicine, and basic supplies for them to survive, just as we need to help the people of Ukraine fight this effort.

Let me just add, parenthetically, a point of personal pride: ``60 Minutes,'' in a show last week, highlighted Lithuania in the Baltics and how this small country of 3 million people has become a haven for political dissidents from Russia and other places. It is with some risk that they would assume this responsibility, but they are part of a commitment--this small nation--to democracy.

The United States needs to make that same commitment and put our money where our values are. Your speech this evening highlighted that, and I thank you for your leadership.

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