Statement on Ukraine
Approved by AFT Executive Council, 2/24/2022  
 
The AFT strongly condemns this premeditated act of hostility by Russia against the sovereign nation of Ukraine.  There can be no justification for this unprovoked act of aggression that stands against all international law.  We stand in strongest solidarity with the Free Trade Union of Education and Science of Ukraine, our partners in Education International whom we hold in the highest regard. 
 
We urge all parties to immediately cease hostilities and seek a diplomatic and negotiated resolution to the conflict. Meanwhile, we urge that there be a coordinated, multilateral response to Russia’s actions, including appropriate financial and political sanctions, and other strong and unwavering responses to this aggression.  We also seek to support humanitarian efforts to aid refugees fleeing the conflict.  
 
The United States and its allies have a lasting stake in Ukraine’s desire for independence, democracy, and territorial integrity.  By standing with Ukraine, we are not only supporting their autonomy; we are also defending our own national interests and advancing the values of human freedom that we have always championed. 
 
As educators -- teachers of government, civics, and world history -- we have not forgotten the costs that were paid over many decades in creating the principles of today’s global order.  Those principles, built in the aftermath of World War II and the Cold War, have made our world more secure, and do not permit one country’s domination of a sovereign neighbor, or changing its borders through intimidation or invasion. 
 
In the days ahead, be assured the AFT will continue to stand in support of our national interests, and with the people of Ukraine in their desire for self-determination, democracy, and peace.