Gov. Janet Mills (D-Maine) issued a statement on Sunday celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day, but made no mention of peace – sharply contrasting with the federal government’s peace-focused messaging.
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As the Trump Administration works to find a peaceful resolution for the Russia-Ukraine war, which will likely require unpleasant concessions from both sides, Gov. Mills’ statement on Ukrainian Independence Day urged apparently unconditional support for the war-torn nation while making no mention of an end to the war.
“Iโm proud to join Governors across the country in honoring the 34th Anniversary of Ukraineโs Independence Day. I have proclaimed today a special day of commemoration in Maine, and urge all citizens to stand united in solidarity with the people of Ukraine,” said Mills.
The Maine GOP issued a short response to Mills.
“Democrats: Anyone-but-America First,” they said on X.
Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) issued a statement similar to Mills’, likewise failing to call for peace.
“On this Ukrainian Independence Day, Iโm proud that communities here in Maineโlike Lewistonโare joining the world in supporting Ukraineโs fight for freedom,” said Rep. Pingree.
Perhaps from Mills’ and Pingree’s perspective, the grueling, nearly four-year-old conflict is simply the sort of intractable problem that liberals seem to adore because its existence justifies spending billions of dollars while vilifying their political opponents. Or perhaps neither is particularly well-suited to offering foreign policy advice.
In contrast, the federal government’s message, penned by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was in line with President Trump’s push for peace. That push has included a historic meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska and attempts to bring both sides to the negotiating table.
“The United States is committed to Ukraineโs future as an independent nation. We believe in a negotiated settlement that upholds Ukrainian sovereignty and guarantees its long-term security, leading to durable peace. On this Independence Day, as you pay tribute to your nationโs history, the United States looks forward to continuing to build on our economic and security partnership for a peaceful, prosperous future for both our nations,” said Rubio in the official State Department press release.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy published a statement including a letter from Trump, commemorating the occasion while maintaining a desire for peace.
“Now is the moment to bring an end to the senseless killing. The United States supports a negotiated settlement that leads to a durable, lasting peace that ends the bloodshed and safeguard’s Ukraine’s sovereignty and dignity,” Trump allegedly said.
