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Up To Date

U.S. Rep. Cleaver says most of Congress united on American response to Ukraine invasion

By Steve Kraske,
Zach Wilson, Elizabeth Ruiz
Published March 9, 2022 at 3:26 PM CST
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U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II Official Photo 2018
Franmarie Metzler
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cleaver.house.gov
Congressman Emanuel Cleaver said most of Congress supports Ukraine, however, there are still seven members who say Russian President Vladimir Putin "is a strategic leader who could teach our leaders some things about how to function in the world."

As heavy sanctions are imposed on Russia, U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver assesses the U.S. response, and predicts a global war if tensions continues to escalate.

Ukraine has been fighting the invasion by Russian troops since Feb. 24. The unprovoked attack has prompted 1 million Ukrainians to flee for neighboring countries like Poland and Hungary, among others.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), a member of the Homeland Security Committee, shared his approval of President Biden's response to the Russia-Ukraine war, saying much of the world is united in backing Ukraine. Countries around the world have imposed significant sanctions on Russia—which, over time, will destabilize Russia's economy—in an effort to de-escalate the conflict.

"We're trying to help them as much as we can, without crossing the border. Once we cross the border, we could be triggering World War III," the congressman said. "I don't want to be melodramatic, but I don't think that's much of an exaggeration."

Tags
Up To Date PodcastEmanuel CleaverCongressMissouriwarUkraineRussiaJoe Biden
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Steve Kraske
When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.
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Zach Wilson
As Up To Date’s senior producer, I construct daily conversations that give our listeners context to the issues of our time. I strive to provide a platform that holds those in power accountable, while also spotlighting the voices of Kansas City’s creatives and visionaries that may otherwise go unheard. Email me at zach@kcur.org.
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Elizabeth Ruiz
As a producer for Up To Date, my goal is to inform our audience by curating interesting and important conversations with reliable sources and individuals directly affected by a topic or issue. I strive for our program to be a place that hosts impactful conversations, providing our audience with greater knowledge, intrigue, compassion and entertainment. Contact me at elizabeth@kcur.org or on Twitter at @er_bentley_ruiz.
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