CLEVELAND — Cleveland City Council took a stand against Russia at its council meeting Monday night.
When it came to Russia President Vladimir Putin, Councilman Mike Polensek had some strong words for him.
“We have been witnessing since Feb. 24 absolute carnage that has been taking place against the Ukranian people by nothing more than a thug, thug dictator. I don’t know how else to describe it — killing innocent men, women and children for no reason at all,” said Polensek.
The council resolution strongly condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and called for sanctions against Russia. Polensek expressed his support for the Ukrainian people while saying America needs to become energy independent and start making items in America again.
Councilman Joe Jones expressed the need for America to show strength.
“And one of the ways that America [can] continue and can show strength in this particular conflict is to put on the table all options, including military options. If we have a big stick, why not show that we have the possibility of being able to use it,” said Jones.
The council passed a resolution condemning Russia’s actions and denounced Putin’s previous actions against Ukraine in recent years.
The resolution is being sent to President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 42,000 Ukrainians live in Ohio. More than a third are in northeast Ohio.
The city of Cleveland as well as major organizations like Global Cleveland said in previous days they are ready to welcome Ukrainian refugees with open arms.
“With the invasion of Russian Federation military forces into Ukraine, The City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and Global Cleveland reaffirm our commitment to democracy and peace, as well as extend our prayers to the communities impacted by this violence,” offcials wrote in a statement. “We strongly condemn this attack that will result in the loss of innocent lives and is a direct threat to the freedom of so many. As thousands of individuals are displaced from their homes and livelihoods in the face of war and violence, we want to remind the world that the city of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, Ohio are here to embrace them with open arms. We are no stranger to welcoming the newcomer – refugee, asylum-seeker, or immigrant fleeing persecution and war – and we are ready to do so again.”
