Durbin Visits Ukrainian National Museum, Discusses Humanitarian And Immigration Relief For Ukrainians
CHICAGO – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus and Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined community leaders at the Ukrainian National Museum to discuss support for the Administration’s decision to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Ukrainians in the United States, the need for Congress to approve billions of dollars in emergency military and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, and the need to support refugees following the Russian military invasion of Ukraine.
“The Ukrainian people are fighting a valiant battle against all odds. I stand in solidarity with Ukraine and commit to do everything I can to provide military equipment and humanitarian relief,” Durbin said. “One key step the Administration has taken—at my request—is allowing Ukrainians who are already in the United States to seek TPS. Congress must now show solidarity and support for Ukraine by providing the emergency funding the Administration has requested and do our part to continue to resettle Ukrainian refugees to America through a strong, robust U.S. refugee resettlement program, one that works for Ukrainians alongside all other refugees.”
Yesterday, the Biden Administration designated Ukraine for TPS, following a letter led by Durbin and Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus and Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Ukrainians currently in the U.S. will now be eligible for TPS, including Ukrainian students, tourists, and workers.
The White House also asked Congress for $10 billion in humanitarian and military aid for Ukraine, which can help neighboring countries like Poland and Hungary to provide emergency relief, food, shelter, and medical care. Durbin spoke on the Senate floor yesterday urging Congress to approve this funding.
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