‘Countering a Resurgent Russia’ - US Congress holds hearing, condemns Russian aggression in Georgia

The US House of Representatives held a hearing on the topic Countering a Resurgent Russia, where diplomats and congresspeople condemned the occupation of Georgian lands by Russia, urging stronger support for Georgia.

Daniel Fried, who served as the US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, said that the occupation of Georgia and Ukraine “undermined peace and stability, which have been built for decades.”

He said that the occupation of Georgian lands in 2008 by Russia was a “signal” which was not perceived appropriately by the US and NATO.

The US and NATO reviewed their policies only after the occupation of the Ukrainian territories by Russia in 2014,” he said.

Fried says that Georgia and Ukraine are in need of the support of reformers and the US has such experience to share.

Congresswoman Ann Wagner said that Russia “undermined peace and freedom,” and this was obvious in its actions in Georgia, Ukraine, Syria and now in Venezuela.

Congressman David Trone says that Russia stirs conflicts to prevent Georgia from integrating itself into NATO.