Please see the following statement from Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac on the crisis happening in Ukraine:

“As heartbreaking images of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine come across our TV screens, we are reminded of a sobering fact — there are powerful forces in this world that want to end the freedom and peace that Democratic societies enjoy.Free economies and free societies are at risk from the world’s most maleficent actors.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not looking to negotiate – he is looking to conquer. Whereas Americans see ourselves as the defenders of the vulnerable, the Kremlin has clearly demonstrated that their goal is to conquer smaller and more vulnerable democracies.

Russia is gaining ground in Ukraine and we must show Ukrainians our unwavering and immediate support. We’ve seen powerful images of men and women fighting for their freedom – the Borough of Englewood Cliffs supports them in their quest for sovereignty and peace.

We are at a pivotal moment in world history. If Ukraine falls, it will open Pandora’s box and allow for Russia to gain traction throughout Eastern Europe. Even worse, allowing Russia to gain this momentum will open the door for China to push forward, putting Taiwan at severe risk.

In this critical moment, we must show Ukraine our unyielding support. We can do this through a variety of ways including sending financial support. Their continued independence is fundamental for preserving democracy on the world stage.

And through this eye-opening experience, it is important that we hold our own political leaders accountable without any excuses if they fail to project American values.

I will always support victims of tyranny wherever they are and I ask you to do the same, since if we are not brave, we will not be free.”