This morning, Russia invaded the free nation of Ukraine, homeland of 44 million and motherland of nearly a million Americans of Ukrainian descent.
Lakewood is a military community, home to generations of active and retired military members and their families. Lakewood is also a global community, home to expatriates of Ukraine and eastern Europe.
Those of us who have served this great country well know that our presiding interest as a nation is freedom and peace. C-17s roar and artillery rumbles here, and we trust their purpose to be protection of that peace.
Now, a free nation is under siege, and we watch this incursion unfold with horror and uncertainty. We stand in solidarity with Ukraine and her people here in our city and country.
Many that live in Lakewood have known war and the personal impact of armed conflict. We embrace our veterans and active military watching this conflict with great anxiety. We share a collective hope that peace may soon be restored.
– Jason Whalen, Mayor
Very well said Jason. As I watch this nightmare unfold, I just can’t believe it’s really happening, the brutality of the invasion is stunning.
There are at least 50 cities in Russia that are protesting this invasion with thousands of Russians taking to the streets. That is where the beginning of the end must start. The Russian people need to change their country and make it a free partner with the rest of the world. Sad days ahead.
I’m amazed by the numbers of Russians marching against this unnecessary war. May they stay safe as they demonstrate; Russia does not generally tolerate dissent. And we are certainly seeing the true nature of Russia at this time.
I pray for a swift end to this war in the form of a Russian troop pullout. The world is condemning Russia; I pray it makes a difference.
Well said, RON!!!
Kris Quinn,
Not all the world is condemning RUSSIA. China is supporting the RUSSIAN attack and the rest of the nations don’t even know where North Korea stands with this invasion.
Well said, RON!!!
Your comments are so impactful and appropriate. If we can find any good from this horrid action by Putin, may it be a renewed, strong appreciation of our Democracy!
THANK YOU Mayor Whalen for expressing City of Lakewood solidarity with a free and prosperous Ukraine. To the times there called, stands President Vlodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelensky, whose personal story and exemplary character could not be more amazing if scripted in Hollywood irony. May we all take note, as you have so well said, that the values and ideals we share are hard won and never secure without honor to the service of their defense.
Jason, Thank you. My family is directly related with the Russian people and hate everything Putin is doing. I also think he is emboldened because of his “Buddie” Donald Trump. Shame on them & those who support greed & selfishness. EVERYONE should ALWAYS remember: “Evil flourishes when good people do nothing!” In this turbulent time, we MUST help where we can.
CNN, and I’m sure others, have lists of charitable organizations to which you can donate. We must unite against tyranny of any sort. Last year we saw how fragile peace is even in our country. Those inciting violence and unlawful acts are of the same ilk as Vlad.
Mayor Jason Whalen, thank you for speaking out for peace.
Joseph Boyle