On the morning of Feb. 24, 2022, my sister-in-law woke to the sound of explosions rocking Kyiv. Only three weeks earlier, my wife and I had fled Ukraine with our young child, thinking we would return soon. Months later, Russian soldiers murdered my nephew and his wife, leaving behind their 1-year-old baby. Other relatives died in combat. Russian forces reduced my wife’s childhood home in Kherson to rubble.

I never imagined fleeing Kyiv or pleading for leadership from my congresswoman in Virginia Beach.

On Feb. 28, President Trump and Vice President JD Vance dismissed Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s warnings and undermined his leadership . U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans, will you reaffirm your support for Ukraine and push back against harmful misinformation?

Your neighbor, 3rd District Rep. Bobby Scott, immediately condemned the administration’s statements. Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark Warner also spoke out. Three years ago, I publicly urged them to push for Russia’s removal from the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) after the invasion. They took clear action. You’ve supported Ukraine in the past with your votes. Why are you silent now?

Do you still believe Russian President Vladimir Putin won’t stop with Ukraine? Do you reject the president’s claim that Zelenskyy is a dictator? Do you believe Ukraine can hold free elections under Russian bombardment? What is your view on the administration’s stance toward European allies? Was it acceptable for our president and vice president to dismiss Zelenskyy?

These claims support Russian interests, weaken alliances and embolden authoritarian regimes such as China and Iran. Rep. Kiggans, my friends and family in Virginia Beach and Ukraine are counting on your leadership to check these falsehoods. Your voice, especially after the Oval Office disaster, could help set the record straight.

Your constituents notice your silence. If you support our national security, speak up and refute false attacks on our allies. Urge your colleagues to do the same .

Do you want your constituents to accept Russian propaganda or stand with Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty?

Many of us voting in Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, including those with family in Ukraine, need you to answer. Will you challenge misinformation and reassure us you value facts? Will you demand that your party do the same?

I escaped the war in Ukraine, but I stay engaged because I know what’s at stake. Your silence undermines those of us who value democracy. You asked for our vote. We want your voice.

Will you denounce falsehoods about Ukraine?

Will you urge Trump to reverse his freeze on military aid and intelligence sharing?

Will you continue to support NATO?

Will you defend the immigration status of Ukrainians residing in your district?

Will you meet with constituents who seek clear answers?

We deserve leaders who stand by their allies and speak out against disinformation. Will you be that leader or remain silent?