Progressives in Congress Push for Ukraine Cease Fire - and Then Reverses Position

While Republicans and Democrats are on opposite sides of the political spectrum when it comes to Ukraine, there is an increasing sense of concern over Russian involvement in the conflict. The Republican Party, which is on the cusp of taking control of the U.S. House, has hinted that it could change its policy towards Ukraine. That could make a cease fire in Ukraine difficult to achieve. But a new approach is emerging, and it’s called for by 30 Democrats.

The letter, signed by 30 Democratic lawmakers, argues that the war in Ukraine must end peacefully and without further damage to civilians in the area. Representatives such as Democratic leader Rep. Pramila Jayapal and the head of the Congressional Progressive Caucus Rep. Ilhan Omar have signed on. Other progressives include Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Ayanna Pressley. The letter is a first step in urging President Obama and the Obama Administration to act on this humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

The letter also urges the President to seek a ceasefire in Ukraine. A ceasefire agreement between Ukraine and Russia should also include security guarantees to protect a free and independent Ukraine. That letter faced significant blow back (and has been withdrawn) because it is seen by many as clearly pro-Russia.

Nonetheless, some are wondering if the rise of the Progressive Caucuses’s calls for a cease fire in the Ukraine are linked to Russia and its allies clearly aiding the GOP through creating energy policies that are resulting in economic havoc in the US. The Democrats are being held responsible by voters for inflation and the growing possibility of recession. In the view of the Russian government, the GOP is clearly in its camp. Some speculate that if enough Democrats called for a cease fire, the Russians would soften its draconian energy policies. That is not likely to happen with the Progressives reversal.