Somerset Times

WASHINGTON, DC - In a bipartisan effort, Chairman Tom Kean, Jr., Ranking Member Bill Keating, Chairman Mike Turner, Congressman Jimmy Panetta, Congressman Joe Wilson, and Vice Chair Gerry Connolly introduced a resolution reaffirming the United States' commitment to NATO and the Article 5 principle of Collective Defense.

Chairman Kean expressed his pride in leading the resolution, emphasizing the importance of NATO's 75-year history and the alliance's strength with the inclusion of Finland and soon-to-be member Sweden. He highlighted the need for all NATO allies to meet the 2% defense investment minimum to send a message to aggressors like Vladimir Putin.

Ranking Member Keating underscored the critical role of the NATO alliance in American security, based on shared values of liberty, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He emphasized the importance of upholding Article 5 and the principle of collective defense.

Chairman Turner emphasized the essential nature of NATO in national security, particularly in supporting Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression and enhancing intelligence sharing and defense capabilities.

Rep. Panetta reiterated the significance of NATO in maintaining security, stability, and democratic values for the past 75 years, stressing the need for the United States to lead in responding to evolving security threats.

Rep. Joe Wilson commended NATO for deterring dictator aggression and celebrated the alliance's strength with the addition of Sweden and Finland.

Vice Chairman Connolly reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to NATO and its Article 5 obligation, emphasizing the importance of securing the future of the transatlantic alliance in the face of global challenges.

The resolution reaffirms the House's dedication to NATO, recognizes the alliance's vitality, and supports the open door policy. It also welcomes Finland and Sweden as new members and calls for NATO allies to meet their defense investment obligations.

The bipartisan resolution serves as a symbol of the United States' enduring commitment to NATO and collective security in the face of present and future challenges.