WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding Russia’s recent reescalation of violence in eastern Ukraine:

“I’m deeply concerned with the recent escalation by Russian-led separatist forces illegally occupying eastern Ukraine.  With Secretary Tillerson confirmed, I urge him to move swiftly to make sure Ukraine has the weapons it needs to defend itself and secure its border. Given Mr. Tillerson’s stated support for a more robust response to Vladimir Putin’s aggression and this administration’s focus on strong borders, helping a partner on NATO’s flank is the least we can do to ensure the stability of our allies and trading partners in Europe.”

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