The National Executive Committee of the largest veterans group in the nation, the American Legion, voted to call for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine and no troop movement to the area without conditions being met.
QUICK FACTS:
- The American Legion’s National Executive Committee voted unanimously on a formal statement calling for peace in Ukraine, according to The Legion’s website.
- The group also opposed combat operations for U.S. troops in the region unless certain conditions are met.
- According to their resolution, they do not support the deployment of U.S. troops “in defense of non-NATO member countries.”
- Additional terms in their statement included that they would only support combat operations for U.S. troops in the region if the president can clearly explain why such operations are in “our vital national interests.”
- They also demanded the establishment of mission guidelines clearly outlining an exit strategy.
- Mission should also be contingent on congressional authorization for the use of military force and that all American forces be commanded only by U.S. officers.
WHAT ELSE THE AMERICAN LEGION’S SAID:
- “The American Legion was founded after World War I ravaged Europe,” American Legion National Commander Paul E. Dillard said. “We are extremely concerned about the horrific consequences that occur during war.”
- “There is absolutely no justification for Russia’s aggression. Our resolution calls for peace in Ukraine and, in conjunction with NATO and the Russian Federation, and supports a European security architecture which considers the national security interests of all parties.”
- “We agree with the White House’s decision to not send troops to Ukraine, as we continue to support a strong national defense and a strategy of vigilance,” Dillard added. “This resolution once again reaffirms our unwavering support for our men and women in uniform and our efforts to ensure their well-being. The American Legion is always here to assist veterans in crisis.”
BACKGROUND:
- Recent polling shows most Americans don’t want United States troops to be sent to Ukraine, according to Newsweek.
- Joe Biden stated during his State of the Union address that he wouldn’t be sending troops to Ukraine at this time, though the United States has offered support in the form of weapons and money.
