'Putin’s Aggression Cannot Be Tolerated': OH Congresswoman

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Russian forces launch an attack on Ukraine, an Ohio congresswoman is lambasting President Vladimir Putin and his aggressive invasion of a neighboring country.

Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat from Toledo, is co-chair of the U.S. House's Congressional Ukraine Caucus. Along with her other co-chairs — Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Republican from Pennsylvania; Rep. Mike Quigley, a Democrat from Illinois; and Rep. Andy Harris, a Republican from Maryland — Kaptur took aim at Putin and his nation for its tactics in Eastern Europe.

"The great conflicts of the past have taught us that Putin’s aggression cannot be tolerated," the caucus said. "As missiles tear through Ukraine’s skies, and tanks begin to roll through its streets — the Free World must rise up in its defense."

Russia's wide-ranging invasion of Ukraine started Thursday. Ukraine's government said Russian tanks and troops rolled across the border in a “full-scale war” that could rewrite the geopolitical order and whose fallout already reverberated around the world.

• Read more: Ukraine-Russia Conflict: As Tensions Rise, Ohio Politicians React

“Together, the United States and our allies must unleash crippling sanctions against Russia, and swiftly bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities," the caucus said. "The security and stability of Europe — and the preservation of global liberty — are all on the line."

President Joe Biden pledged new sanctions to punish Russia for the “unprovoked and unjustified attack.” The president said he planned to speak to Americans on Thursday after a meeting of the Group of Seven leaders. More sanctions against Russia were expected to be announced.

The invasion of Ukraine could also lead to further inflation and rising prices in the U.S. and across Ohio.

"Russia is one of the leading oil producers globally, behind only the United States and Saudi Arabia," said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. "And if they choose to withhold their oil from the global market, such a move would eventually be reflected in higher gas prices for American drivers."

The Ukraine Caucus' full statement is below:

“Without provocation – and in a reprehensible violation of international law – Vladimir Putin has rejected diplomacy and chosen the path of brutal and senseless war with Ukraine. By invading Ukraine, Putin has affirmed Russia’s status as a criminally rogue state, and launched an offensive against the entire world.

“Putin has repeatedly justified his aggression with lies, but the world must understand that he spills innocent blood because freedom and democracy are his true enemies. This invasion will inflict unimaginable suffering the likes of which we have not seen in recent memory.

“The great conflicts of the past have taught us that Putin’s aggression cannot be tolerated. As missiles tear through Ukraine’s skies, and tanks begin to roll through its streets – the Free World must rise up in its defense.

“Together, the United States and our allies must unleash crippling sanctions against Russia, and swiftly bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities. The security and stability of Europe – and the preservation of global liberty – are all on the line.”

Reporting from The Associated Press was used in this article.