Another “Ukrainian Day” will take place in Washington, D.C., on December 1, during which representatives of the Ukrainian American community will meet with members of Congress. Discussions will focus on military assistance to Ukraine, sanctions against Russia, and the extension of Temporary Protected Status for Ukrainian refugees. The event is dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s nationwide referendum on independence.
This was reported by the Ukrainian National Information Service (UNIS), the Washington bureau of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA).
According to UNIS, which is organizing the event, this will be the final advocacy event held during the 119th U.S. Congress. It will take place after the U.S. congressional midterm elections and will coincide with the 35th anniversary of the nationwide referendum held on December 1, 1991, in which Ukrainians confirmed the independence of their state.
Organizers say the meetings will give representatives of the Ukrainian community an opportunity to speak with U.S. lawmakers, discuss current issues related to support for Ukraine, and thank officials who are completing their service in Congress for their previous assistance.
Among the main issues expected to be raised during meetings with members of Congress are the Donald Trump administration’s easing of sanctions on Russia; agreements related to supplies of diesel fuel from Russia; the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukrainians who came to the United States because of Russian aggression; and the need for continued security and military assistance to Ukraine.
UNIS emphasizes that holding the event in early December is particularly significant because it falls during the final period of work of the 119th U.S. Congress following the midterm elections.
U.S. lawmakers returned to work on November 9 for a six-week session known as the lame-duck session. During this period, the current Congress continues to make decisions before the new Congress begins its work in January 2027.
Among the issues remaining on the agenda are the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027 and continued funding for the federal government.
Organizers are drawing particular attention to December 11, when the current continuing budget resolution expires. By that date, Congress is expected to consider a number of funding measures that may include provisions related to Ukraine.
According to UNIS representatives, the presence of the Ukrainian community in Washington during negotiations over legislative initiatives will make it possible to communicate its position directly to U.S. lawmakers. Organizers also plan to engage members of Congress who will continue serving in the new 120th Congress in order to establish priorities for future cooperation.
The program for “Ukrainian Day” on December 1 includes two main events. Throughout the day, representatives of the Ukrainian community will meet with members of the U.S. Congress. In the evening, the “Friend of UNIS Congressional Appreciation Reception” is scheduled to take place, recognizing the contributions of U.S. lawmakers who have supported Ukraine.
The Ukrainian National Information Service emphasizes that the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence referendum is an opportunity to remind American policymakers of the Ukrainian people’s right to determine their own future.
Registration for “Ukrainian Day” is open through November 26. Representatives of the Ukrainian community and anyone interested may register through the link published by UNIS.For additional information, the Ukrainian National Information Service can be contacted by email at unis@ucca.org.
Photo: media.slovoidilo.ua
Author: Inna Mikhno
