US ambassador says unwavering support for Ukraine, including refugee protection, must continue

The Romanian government and civil society partners deserve special appreciation for their continued commitment to protecting and assisting refugees in Ukraine, US Ambassador in Bucharest Kathleen Kavalec said on Friday.She attended the event organised by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) at the North Railway Station in Bucharest to mark two years since Romania's response to the refugee situation in Ukraine.Remarks by Ambassador Kathleen Kavalec at UNHCR event Marking Two years of Romania’s Response to the Ukrainian Refugee Situation   February 23, 2024   Good morning, Distinguished members of the Romanian government, Your excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,   It’s an honor to join all of you today.  Let me start by extending my gratitude to Romania’s UNHCR Country Representative Pablo Zapata, for the invitation and for your steadfast work on behalf of both Romania and Ukraine over the last two years.    Two years ago, Russia started an unprovoked, illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.  In the words of Secretary Blinken, “In this war, there is an aggressor and there is a victim.  Russia fights for conquest.  Ukraine fights for its freedom.”  Putin’s war unleashed a devastating chain of destruction, claiming lives, and displacing tens of millions.  Since February 24, more than 5 million refugees have sought temporary or longer-term protection and safety in Romania, with many transiting here at Gara de Nord.    I commend every sector of Romanian society for their extraordinary efforts in assisting their neighbors, providing food, shelter, medical care, transportation, and support to continue their journey, or start anew in Romania.   The Romanian government and civil society partners deserve special appreciation for their continuous commitment to protecting and assisting Ukrainian refugees.    Early in my time here, I spoke in Iasi with a Ukrainian woman who told me “Romanians are our guardian angels.”  Her response really struck a chord, pointing to the empathy and understanding with which Romanians responded to this crisis. Indeed, Romania’s whole-of-society support not only saved lives but has also become a source of inspiration globally.    Beyond the humanitarian tragedy, Russia has attempted to divide us and challenge our commitment to defending Ukraine’s sovereignty.  Pro-Kremlin groups have employed hate and disinformation campaigns to fuel resentment against Ukrainian refugees globally.    Such tactics will not succeed.  We stand united in our unwavering support for Ukraine, including the protection of its refugees.   Refugees everywhere are vulnerable, facing challenges in accessing housing, food, health, education, or labor.  The Refugee Response Plan implemented by UNHCR, in collaboration with other UN agencies and NGOs, has provided crucial support to approximately 124,000 refugees throughout the past year.    I am confident that the 2024 Plan developed by UNHCR will further ensure the protection and inclusion of Ukrainian refugees.   In moments of crisis, like the one we are facing, we – the United States, Romania, and many other allies – are discovering new dimensions of our shared humanity, understanding, and respect.  The resolute determination of the Ukrainian people and the international community supporting Ukraine sends a clear message to bad actors like Putin that their attempts to sow aggression, division, and hatred will not succeed.     We are united by the imperative to save lives, alleviate suffering, and uphold human dignity.  We recognize that the well-being of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters and their families and children depends on our collective response.    We choose a brighter future of peace, hope, and understanding.   Thank you!   (Photo:https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=259354503024703&set=a.185353653758122)