Recognizing Russian actions in Ukraine as a genocide.
Impact
The resolution serves to shift the narrative surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, framing Russian actions as not only aggressive but as a violation of international law. By officially labeling these actions as genocide, it emphasizes the obligations of the United States and its allies to support Ukraine and prevent further atrocities. This recognition has implications for international relations and may impact foreign policy decisions, including potential military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Summary
House Resolution 154, introduced on February 24, 2023, recognizes and condemns the actions of the Russian Federation in Ukraine as acts of genocide. The resolution outlines significant evidence of atrocities committed against the Ukrainian people, including systematic killings, bodily harm, and other violent acts that meet the criteria for genocide as defined under the Genocide Convention. This resolution not only calls for the condemnation of these acts but also highlights the need for international accountability for those responsible.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HR154 stem from the differing perspectives on American involvement in foreign conflicts. Proponents argue that this resolution is crucial for moral and humanitarian reasons, while critics may contend that it could lead to escalated involvement in the conflict. Furthermore, some may raise concerns about the ramifications of officially recognizing actions as genocide, as it could invoke obligations under international law, including potential interventions or sanctions against Russia.
This resolution condemns Russia for committing acts of genocide against the Ukrainian people. It also calls on the United States, in cooperation with North Atlantic Treaty Organization and European Union allies, to undertake measures to support the Ukrainian government to prevent further acts of Russian genocide against the Ukrainian people.
Commemorating the heroic sacrifices of the people of Ukraine 3 years after Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal and unprovoked war against Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and recognizing the terrible cost of Russia's committing crimes against Humanity aggression.
Reaffirming the United States unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity as Russia's illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine hits its third year.
Commending the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, and Maria Lvova-Belova, Commissioner for Children's Rights in the Office of the President of the Russian Federation, for two war crimes related to the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.
Commemorating the heroic sacrifices of the Ukrainian people 2 years after Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and recognizing the terrible cost of Russia's war of aggression.
Recognizing the actions of the Rapid Support Forces and allied militias in the Darfur region of Sudan against non-Arab ethnic communities as acts of genocide.
A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the 90th anniversary of the Ukrainian Famine of 1932-1933, known as the Holodomor, should serve as a reminder of repressive Soviet policies against the people of Ukraine, and that Vladimir Putin's brutal and unprovoked war against Ukraine once again threatens the existence of the Ukrainian people, while exacerbating the problems of global hunger.
Declares support for Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees residing in NJ; expresses solidarity with its citizens; urges federal government to continue providing support for Ukraine and funds for refugee programs.