Ohio House, Senate unanimously condemn Russia for invasion

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a show of bipartisan solidarity, the Ohio House of Representatives and Ohio Senate approved separate resolutions condemning Russia for the invasion of Ukraine. 

The House resolution was introduced by State Reps. Bill Roemer, R-Richfield, and Andrea White, R-Kettering. The Senate’s resolution was introduced by State Sens. Kenny Yuko, D-Richmond Heights; Andrew Brenner, R-Delaware; and Theresa Gavarone, R-Huron.

“The Russian Federation’s recent invasion of Ukraine is a shocking and saddening violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and represents a grave threat to freedom in Eastern Europe,” said Roemer. “This act must be met with swift condemnation from Americans.”

The lawmakers noted that Ohio is home to 42,000 people with Ukrainian descent, according to U.S. Census data. 

“We stand with all Ukrainians in defense of their autonomy and against the horrific acts of war being waged against them,” said White. “And we unite all Ohio Ukrainian-Americans in praying for their loved ones as they watch with deep concern for their friends and families back in Ukraine.”

The resolution is among several ways the state has shown official support for Ukraine. 

On Tuesday, Gov. Mike DeWine’s office said that bridges across the state would be illuminated in Ukraine’s yellow and blue colors. 

The governor’s office noted that the Ukrainian flag is flying at the Ohio Statehouse and Governor’s Mansion. DeWine also declared last Sunday a Day of Prayer and suspended the sale of Russian-made vodkas in state-run liquor stores.