The ATU Stands with the People of Ukraine
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, the ATU has been joining world leaders and the global labor movement in calling for an end to Russia’s military aggression.
Ukraine, roughly the size of Texas, has a long and complicated history with Russia to its east. After collapsing, Ukraine split off from the former Soviet Union in 1991, gaining full independence, which is what Ukraine and its allies, including the United States, are fighting to protect.
“We have watched as courageous Ukrainians, including its President, resist this occupation and fight bravely for their country. The ATU has among our ranks people from all over the world. We believe that all people and nations should be free from threats of violence,” said International President John Costa. “This unprovoked assault threatens democracy, security, and peace not only in Ukraine but across Europe and the entire world. War is not the answer. We join the global community and our allies in calling for an end to President Putin’s military aggression and support the call for a unified response to bring an end to these senseless attacks on Ukraine.”
ATU Makes Donation to the ITUC Ukrainian Refugee Relief Effort
To further assist in the efforts to aid Ukraine, at the ATU’s General Executive Board meeting in New Orleans, the ATU announced a donation of $25,000 to the International Trade Union Confederation Relief Fund to provide immediate support to displaced Ukrainian refugees.
“Many Ukrainian civilians have tragically lost their lives. Families have been torn apart and forced to flee their homes amid the destruction and violence of the war,” said Costa. “As a labor union with members from all walks of life, it’s our responsibility to help whenever we can by responding to the needs of those most affected by this humanitarian crisis by supporting where we can. We are hopeful that this donation for the millions of refugees will help those most in need of care.”
The ITUC relief fund is providing support for the ITUC Ukrainian member organizations – the Federation of Trade Unions of Ukraine and the Confederation of Free Trade Unions - to assist Ukrainian families who desperately need help. The donations are providing basic needs to support the increasing number of refugees.
Donations to the ITUC Relief Fund can be made at https://bit.ly/ITUC-Ukraine-Relief