Photo: Group photo of representatives invited to the symposium. Senator Rob Portman is in the front row, fourth from left.    Photo by Erika Kikut Puussaar

In April, 2015, Ohio Senator Rob Portman traveled to Ukraine and Latvia to gain his own perspective on the situation in Ukraine, as well as the Baltic countries.

It was a sobering trip for him. Portman has repeatedly called for increased U.S. military assistance to Ukraine as they continue to face Russian agression.

Upon his return, Senator Rob Portman chaired a symposium with members of Eastern European communities in Cleveland to discuss his recent visit to Ukraine and Latvia.

At the meeting, Lithuanians were represented by Dr. Vik Stankus, Latvians were represented by Maris Mantenieks and Estonians were represented by Erika Kikut Puussaar.

After a two-hour meeting, the participants left with the knowledge that Senator Rob Portman understands our deep concern over Russian hostility.

Erika Kikut Puussaar