Hillary Clinton on Ukraine
Hillary Clinton has taken a firm stance in support of Ukraine against Russia's aggression, consistently voicing her backing for the nation's right to self-determination and its pro-Western trajectory.
During the 2022 invasion, the former Secretary of State characterized the conflict as a heartbreaking, unprovoked war waged by Putin out of personal grievances against the Ukrainian people. She praised the determination of the Ukrainian people, from President Zelenskyy to civilians taking up arms, and stressed the need for the world to remain committed to supporting their defense.
Historically, Clinton has also advocated for Ukraine's integration into Western structures, applauding its aspirations for NATO membership even before the 2022 conflict. She views the current Russian actions not only as a regional threat but also as an ideological challenge to the rule of law and democratic values, warning against domestic political factions that parrot Russian talking points.
Context
Hillary Clinton's views on Ukraine are informed by her extensive experience as Secretary of State and her long-standing engagement with post-Soviet states. Her deep involvement in foreign policy, particularly during the Obama administration, established a foundation for transatlantic security cooperation.
Her historical context is crucial, as she was involved in the diplomatic aftermath of the 2014 annexation of Crimea. Furthermore, her long advocacy for NATO enlargement demonstrates a consistent belief in anchoring Eastern European democracies to Western security frameworks.
Timeline
- As Senator, Hillary Clinton applauded Ukraine's aspiration for NATO membership and committed to supporting its efforts to meet the criteria for eventual entry.
- Clinton likened Russia's military action in Crimea to Nazi Germany's territorial aggression in the 1930s, stating that Putin believes it is his mission to restore 'Russian greatness.' She cautioned that any negotiation must not sanction Russia's effective annexation of Crimea.
- Following the full-scale invasion, Hillary Clinton stated the conflict would 'not going to end quickly' and believed Vladimir Putin was most surprised by the swift resistance. She called for greater access to defensive weapons for Ukraine and deemed Russia's proposed humanitarian corridors 'unacceptable.'
- Clinton highlighted the horrific impact of the war on Ukrainian women and girls, specifically noting the rise in kidnapping, rape, and trafficking amid the 'violent unprovoked unjustified war' waged by Putin.
- Clinton condemned those in the US echoing Russian talking points, arguing that opposing aid to Ukraine is 'doing Putin's bidding.' She emphasized supporting Ukraine 'on the merits' and as a defense of American values against a 'dystopian' alternative.
Key Quotes
It's so heartbreaking to me that Putin is acting out his own insecurities, his own resentments and grievances against the people of Ukraine — waging a war against a smaller state that is totally unprovoked,” said the former secretary of state. “It really tells us everything we need to know about Putin.”
I applaud the fact that Ukraine aspires to anchor itself firmly in the trans-atlantic community through membership in NATO.
When I see people parroting Russian talking points that first showed up on Russia Today or first showed up in a speech from a Russian official, that's a big point scored for Putin.
Sources5
Hillary Clinton on Russia's invasion of Ukraine: 'This is not going to end quickly'
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.