CLEVELAND — In response to Russia's launch of a full-scale invasion against neighboring Ukraine on Thursday, the city of Cleveland has released a joint statement with Global Cleveland and Cuyahoga County in support of Ukraine.
"We strongly condemn this attack that will result in the loss of innocent lives and is a direct threat to the freedom of so many. As thousands of individuals are displaced from their homes and livelihoods in the face of war and violence, we want to remind the world that the city of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, Ohio are here to embrace them with open arms," the three groups wrote in the statement.
Reaction to the move of invasion by Russia has prompted swift condemnation by national, state, and local leaders.
In Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden announced new sanctions against Russia, saying President Vladimir Putin “chose this war” and that his country would bear the consequences of his action.
Both of Ohio's U.S. Senators, Democrat Sherrod Brown and Repubican Rob Portman issued statements condemning Russia's aggression, as did many members of Congress from the state.
The statement from Cleveland took note of the fact that thousands of Ukranians and Russians are a part of the local community. "We are no stranger to welcoming the newcomer– refugee, asylum-seeker, or immigrant fleeing persecution and war – and we are ready to do so again. Cleveland is home to a beautiful, vibrant community made up of thousands of Ukrainians and Russians, and we will continue to be a safe, unifying place for those seeking peace and prosperity."
You can read the entire statement below.
Thursday, February 24, 2022 – Cleveland, OH – "With the invasion of Russian Federation military forces into Ukraine, The City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and Global Cleveland reaffirm our commitment to democracy and peace, as well as extend our prayers to the communities impacted by this violence. We strongly condemn this attack that will result in the loss of innocent lives and is a direct threat to the freedom of so many. As thousands of individuals are displaced from their homes and livelihoods in the face of war and violence, we want to remind the world that the city of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, Ohio are here to embrace them with open arms. We are no stranger to welcoming the newcomer– refugee, asylum-seeker, or immigrant fleeing persecution and war – and we are ready to do so again. Cleveland is home to a beautiful, vibrant community made up of thousands of Ukrainians and Russians, and we will continue to be a safe, unifying place for those seeking peace and prosperity. In the face of this threat to freedom, we stand shoulder to shoulder with those throughout the world who are advocating for peace and human rights."
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