1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The United States must stand firm in its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Accepting Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and freezing territorial lines along the current frontlines would be a grave violation of international law and Ukrainian sovereignty. It would also reward Russia's unprovoked aggression and embolden further acts of aggression against Ukraine and other nations. The U.S. proposal outlined by Vice President Vance favors Russia's maximalist demands at the expense of Ukraine's rightful claims over its own territory. Ukraine has shown remarkable resilience in defending its land and people against Russian invasion. Abandoning Ukraine now would not only betray a key democratic ally, but also undermine America's credibility and interests worldwide. Rather than pressuring the victim, the U.S. should increase economic sanctions and military aid to Ukraine to strengthen its hand in peace negotiations. A just peace can only be achieved by respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity and right to self-determination, including its constitutionally enshrined aspirations to join NATO. The U.S. should remain steadfast in upholding the rules-based international order and defending democratic values against authoritarianism and military aggression.