Dear Sen. Vance and Mr. Moreno:

We, the undersigned residents of Ohio, note that you're planning an upcoming political rally to be held in Parma -- the city with more Americans of Ukrainian descent than any other in the State of Ohio.  Given your opposition to helping the people of Ukraine oppose the naked aggression of Russia, many will view your choice of location as questionable, at best.  We, however, view your choice as an opportunity to educate you on what is -- and what is not -- truly at issue with regard to U.S. aid to Ukraine.

First, Russia's invasion of Ukraine is not, to use Sen. Vance's words, a "border dispute" (unless, of course, one views Hitler's invasion of France a "border dispute").  "Border disputes" don't result in mass graves filled with innocent civilian Ukrainians in Bucha and Irpin, thousands of Ukrainian children abducted to Russia, and millions of Ukrainian refugees displaced from their homes.

Second, U.S. military aid to Ukraine is being spent not in Ukraine, but with U.S. manufacturers of defense equipment.  Your opposition to this support not only hurts Ukraine, it hurts businesses like the U.S. Army tank plant in Lima, Ohio -- businesses you purport to care so much about.

In addition, ignoring events in Ukraine will cost America much more in the long run.  Your willingness to abdicate America's role in the world doesn't only impact Ukraine -- it impacts Israel, Taiwan, Eastern Europe and numerous other places around the globe.

Finally, Ohio’s Republican elected officials have always fought for freedom in Eastern Europe -- strong Republicans like Senator George Voinovich, Governor Mike DeWine, Senator Rob Portman, Congressman Dave Joyce and Congressman Max Miller.  We urge you to join your party and support Ukraine. 

Ukrainians are currently dying to preserve the world order that has made America the most prosperous nation on Earth.  Remember that as you visit Parma on March 18.

Sincerely, 

Ukrainian-Americans of Ohio