The nation’s maritime unions stand united in their support for President Biden’s actions taken in support of Ukraine during “the horrific and unjustified attack by Russia.”
In a letter sent to the White House on March 9, the presidents of the American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Marine Firemen’s Union; Sailors’ Union of the Pacific; and Seafarers International Union stated, “We strongly endorse your decision to end all oil and natural gas imports from Russia as well as the imposition of additional rigorous trade sanctions against Russia as deemed appropriate.”
The letter concluded, “As our nation’s fourth arm of defense, the United States-flag merchant marine and its cadre of American merchant mariners have a unique role and proud tradition of service to our country in time of war or other emergency. We again stand ready to work with you and your Administration to provide the support and service our country needs.”
Russian forces launched their attack on neighboring Ukraine on February 24. Since then, Ukraine forces have mounted a vigilant defense, while the United States and allied NATO nations have imposed a series of economic sanctions on Russia. Unknown thousands of civilians have been killed while several million Ukrainians have sought safety in neighboring eastern European nations.
The full text of the letter may be seen here:
Maritime Labor Letter to President Biden – Ukraine.