Demand Truthful Leadership: Urge President Trump to Publicly Acknowledge Russia's Aggression in Ukraine

As President Trump prepares to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, the world watches closely. His statements on the war in Ukraine have too often echoed Russian propaganda, falsely suggesting that Ukraine provoked the conflict. These inaccuracies not only distort the truth but also endanger lives and undermine global efforts for a just resolution.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, following years of aggression in Crimea and the Donbas. The facts are clear: Russia is the aggressor, and Ukraine is the victim. Spreading falsehoods about the war's origins shifts blame away from the perpetrator and emboldens further violence.

Religious freedom has been harshly suppressed in Russian-occupied territories, with crackdowns on Christians and other faith communities. The contrast between life in free Ukraine and under Russian occupation is stark, especially for those who value religious liberty.

We urge President Trump to reject misleading talking points and instead stand for truth and justice. American leaders must not legitimize aggression or reward falsehood. The path to peace begins with honesty about who started this war and who continues to threaten peace and freedom in Ukraine.

We call on President Trump to:

• Publicly affirm that Russia initiated the war against Ukraine.
• Reject and correct any statements or narratives that blame Ukraine for the conflict.
• Support religious freedom and condemn the persecution of Christians and other faith groups in Russian-occupied areas.
• Commit to a just peace that does not reward aggression or surrender Ukraine's sovereignty.

Our Ukrainian friends, faith partners, and all those suffering from this war deserve the truth. We ask President Trump to lead with integrity and courage, prioritizing justice and freedom over political expediency.