Swalwell Calls Putin 'Ruthless Dictator' Following Invasion

DUBLIN, CA — Congressman Eric Swalwell said that the United States must “lead our global alliance to ensure that [Vladimir Putin] fails,” following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Swalwell, a Democrat who has represented California 15th Congressional District since 2013, graduated Dublin High School, and then went on to serve on the city’s Planning Commission and City Council before being elected to Congress.

On Thursday, Swalwell issued the following statement regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine:

“Vladimir Putin has invaded the free and democratic country of Ukraine. The United States must lead our global alliances to ensure he fails.

Vladimir Putin is a ruthless dictator whose actions are a threat to democracies everywhere. Inside his own country he has murdered journalists and jailed his political opponents. Outside his country he has used cyber warfare to disrupt democracies. And now, he is the architect of the largest land invasion in Europe since World War II.

We are not helpless. Through unity we can stop him. And we can do so without U.S. troops firing a single shot. On the front lines our military must give resources to the Ukrainians to assist in their defense, and our intelligence community must share actionable information. Globally, we must lead a sanctions regime that stops the flow of Russia’s money, oil, and travelers.

“Most importantly, we must unite the American people at home, even as former President Trump roots for Russia. I hope every American recognizes the privilege of living in a free country. What is our democracy worth if we can’t stand against the invasion of another’s?”

A “Solidarity with Ukraine” demonstration will be held at San Francisco City Hall from 4 to 5 p.m. on Thursday.

Amid global condemnation, Russia has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, unleashing airstrikes on cities and military bases and sending troops and tanks from multiple directions in a move that could rewrite the world's geopolitical landscape.

Ukraine's government pleaded for help as civilians piled into trains and cars to flee.
President Joe Biden on Thursday announced severe sanctions against Russia.

— Gideon Rubin and The Associated Press contributed to this report.