Roger Wicker

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the RECORDS on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I commend Nissan's and Toyota's investments in Mississippi. These efforts are part of a broader pattern of Japanese-brand automakers' expansion into the American Southeast to build vehicles closer to their customers and to create good-paying American jobs. As of the end of 2025, Nissan's Canton assembly plant and Toyota's Blue Springs facility together employ over 5,600 workers and represent more than $5.6 billion in capital investment. This has catalyzed the growth of suppliers and logistics operations that provide additional employment across our State. The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA)'s historical assessment shows that Japanese-brand automakers have expanded from early plants in the Midwest to a network of more than 2 dozen manufacturing facilities and dozens of R&D and design centers across the country, with the Southeast playing an increasingly important role. Mississippi's plants are integral to that network, supplying vehicles and components that feed national and international markets. These companies have also invested in the future of Mississippi's workforce. Nissan and Toyota participate in STEM initiatives, support technical training, and offer earn-and-learn programs and scholarships that help Mississippians gain skills in automotive manufacturing, robotics, and maintenance. Research published by JAMA underscores how this kind of effort helps transform education and build a talent pipeline for the future. Community engagement, including charitable contributions, volunteerism, and support for local organizations, further demonstrates their commitment to Mississippi. As we mark JAMA USA's 50th anniversary, the story in Mississippi is instructive. It reminds us that steadily increasing, long-term investment from trusted allies like Japan is about more than factories and numbers. Investment supports workers, strengthens communities, and reinforces a U.S.-Japan relationship that is essential to both of our countries' economic and strategic success.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, today I commend Roger Harris, who has been an excellent partner to the State of Mississippi and to passenger rail across the country. This year, Mr. Harris is concluding 7 years of service with Amtrak, a tenure which has been marked by dedication and success. Roger joined Amtrak in January 2019, following a decades-long career in commercial aviation. He excelled and, within 3 years, was promoted to president. He devoted himself and the company to running a great railroad, building for the future, and increasing revenue and ridership across the entire Amtrak network. Roger's 7 years at Amtrak spanned some of the most consequential in the railroad's history. In the depths of the pandemic, he helped provide steady leadership, enabling the company to continue delivering essential service, even as daily ridership declined by up to 97 percent. He led the company through an impressive post-pandemic recovery. Amtrak has set back-to-back revenue and ridership records over the last 2 years, and the company is currently on track for another banner year. It is worth noting that Amtrak has met this growing demand for train service while delivering major capital projects, including new trains and facilities, more accessible stations, and the biggest Northeast Corridor infrastructure program in Amtrak history. Under his leadership, Amtrak has been ambitious: launching the NextGen Acela fleet, beginning the delivery of the Airo fleet, laying the groundwork to replace much of the long distance fleet, advancing major infrastructure projects like the Portal North Bridge and the B&P Tunnel Replacement, and expanding service in places like Virginia and the Midwest Borealis train. Of particular interest to my constituents, he helped accomplish what Mississippians had anticipated for two decades: the return of passenger rail to the gulf coast. The Mardi Gras Service is personal to me and to the people I represent. Hurricane Katrina silenced that line in 2005. For 20 years, the gulf coast lost not just a train but one of its connections to the rest of the country. I spent the better part of a decade in the U.S. Senate working to restore this service. I testified before the Surface Transportation Board, secured Federal investment, and spoke to every Amtrak and Federal Railroad Administration official that I could reach. On August 18, 2025, the Mardi Gras Service was restored. Through it all, Mr. Harris and his team were also integral to restoring the service. A year into its operations, the Mardi Gras Service has exceeded every expectation. Amtrak projected 71,000 riders during the service's first year. The line has carried more than 100,000 passengers just in 8 months. Riders have embraced the service, giving it the highest customer satisfaction rating in the Amtrak system. That success did not happen by accident. It reflects a leadership philosophy that values customer service, operational excellence, and a willingness to invest in communities that had waited far too long for passenger rail. Roger believed the gulf coast corridor was worth restoring, and the people of Mississippi are better served because of his belief. In my interactions with Roger, he has always been straightforward, accessible, and willing to work together. Because of that, Mr. Harris does not only leave Amtrak in a stronger position than he found it. He also leaves it with many a friend in Mississippi. On behalf of the people of my State and the taxpayer--and of the riders along the gulf coast who have a Mardi Gras Service to be proud of--I thank Roger Harris for his service. I wish him and his family well in the next adventure.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in town tomorrow for a highly anticipated state visit. Quite frankly, had the White House asked me for advice, I would have suggested the President not invite Xi Jinping to Washington for such a lavish welcome here in the United States of America based on all of the troubling issues we have with President Xi and the Chinese Communist Party. But in light of the fact that the Chinese Communist President is coming to the United States, I want to take a moment to suggest a list of topics that the President might mention during the summit. As we know, a proper state visit requires a proper state dinner. Again, I would not have scheduled such a thing. But as guests converse over the meal, the President might inquire about the purposes of China's massive military buildup or about China's clear support for Iran. This summer, it was all over the press that China gave Iran satellite imagery intelligence, and that intelligence led to the death of American troops. So I would certainly suggest that the President try to get an answer to that. While President Trump and President Xi are talking, perhaps Mr. Trump could bring up the Uighur people. For nearly a decade, Xi Jinping has consigned more than a million Uighurs to concentration camps in China's Xinjiang region. I hope our President will take this visit as an opportunity to advocate for the Uighur people. The fact that they remain in prison by the millions is a grave injustice and a reminder of Xi Jinping's many human rights abuses. Then, after asking about the Uighur people, the President should mention China's persecution of all manner of religious groups, to include Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and those practicing Falun Gong. In July, President Trump successfully advocated for the release of Pastor Ezra Jin. Why not suggest releasing all imprisoned Christians and allowing all people of whatever faith to worship freely? Then President Trump might ask why China openly coerces Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The Chinese dictator works hard to intimidate America's allies in the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and the Second Thomas Shoal. China also bullies, jails, and otherwise silences dissidents. When meeting with Xi in May, President Trump advocated for Jimmy Lai, the Hong Kong newspaper publisher Xi has kept locked up in solitary confinement. Why has Mr. Lai been locked up? His crime was speaking freely in Hong Kong. I hope Mr. Trump will again ask for the release of the frail, elderly Mr. Lai and all those imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party in Hong Kong and elsewhere. Perhaps over the salad course of the dinner, our President could ask Xi Jinping about the Chinese navy's harassment of Filipino fishermen and sailors and about China's abuse of its neighbors. Perhaps he could ask Mr. Xi why he invents military disputes and then resolves them by military force--or attempts to resolve them. Then I hope the President will inquire about Xi Jinping's interference in the internal affairs of nations around the world. Perhaps he could bring up Chinese exploitation of African countries and Latin American nations with debt-trap diplomacy and election meddling. While the servers are switching from chardonnay to cabernet at the fancy state dinner, perhaps the President could turn to Xi's so-called reunification of China with Taiwan, his wish that Taiwan become a part of mainland China. In the strong Chinese leader's view of the future, should the freely elected Government of Taiwan expect the same treatment that the people of Hong Kong have experienced--the loss of their freedom that the world has seen over the past three decades since reunification with Hong Kong. I know the President intends to discuss trade and artificial intelligence with the Chinese leadership--and rightfully so. Perhaps some progress will be made. But, Mr. President, during every minute of dialogue, our Commander in Chief should keep in mind that his guest is a brutal, unelected, and oppressive dictator who seeks to dominate his neighbors and whose massive military arsenal is aimed directly at the United States of America. I yield the floor.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Madam President, on the evening of May 6, 2026, Jonathan Blanchard heard tornado sirens blare through his hometown Bogue Chitto, MS. A volunteer firefighter accustomed to responding to emergencies, Blanchard gathered his family and found shelter. Once the storm passed, he set out to assess the damage. A walk that would typically take minutes turned into a 2-hour trek through uprooted trees and storm debris. When he arrived at his home, Blanchard found it had been virtually destroyed. Instead of being paralyzed by his loss, he reached out and helped others. A short distance away, Blanchard heard cries for help. He sprang into action, followed the sound, and found a woman trapped beneath an overturned camper. He put his 30 years of emergency response experience to use. Blanchard and another neighbor carried the woman nearly a quarter mile to an ambulance, delivering her to safety. He continued his rescue efforts throughout the night. Like Mississippians across the State affected by the tornadoes, Mr. Blanchard could not sit by as his community suffered. That spirit characterizes his whole life. When he is not on duty at the Hog Chain Volunteer Fire Department, Mr. Blanchard works as a welder at Wastequip in Brookhaven. He and his wife Rebecca Blanchard have three children. Jonathan Blanchard's selfless service to his town is a true testament to his character and is an example to the State. I join my fellow Mississippians in saluting Jonathan Blanchard for his swift action and selflessness in the face of disaster.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, first, I ask unanimous consent to waive the mandatory quorum call with respect to the cloture motion on the motion to proceed to Calendar No. 454, H.R. 5334.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, and now let me join with my colleagues from New Hampshire and Alabama in urging a strong ``yes'' vote on the motion to proceed to Lindsey Graham's sanctions bill. A number of us gathered today, as we have already heard, at the National Cathedral for Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral. And in a few moments, we will vote to advance a bill that Lindsey Graham made possible. During the past few days, we have heard a number of stories about Lindsey Graham's many idiosyncrasies: his endless energy--he has been called the Energizer Bunny--his quotable jokes, his nonquotable quips, his one-of-a-kind personality. We also remembered his steadfast love for freedom and his intolerance for tyrants. The bill we will vote on in a few moments reflects those aspects of his personality. I have suggested that it is his greatest political achievement. It took a Senator like Lindsey Graham to bring this bill so far. In this environment, with these stakes, he brought together so many parties. It seems he did this almost through the sheer force of his will. I have seen that drive for 32 years since we came to Washington together as freshmen in 1994. Again, I say this could turn out to be Lindsey Graham's greatest legislative achievement. The Lindsey Graham sanctions bill will advance the cause of freedom, and it will combat Vladimir Putin's war machine. It will go after Vladimir Putin, his inner circle, and the shadow fleet they use to evade sanctions. It will hold accountable those who purchase the most Russian oil and gas. It will also take aim at China's investments in Russian weapons production. It will maintain sanctions pressure on Iran. These policies will save human lives. They will pave the way for even more impressive battlefield achievements by Ukraine. The Ukrainians have been resourceful from day one. For 4 years, the freedom fighters have managed to stand against a country four times the size of theirs. And today, Ukraine is using long-range drone strikes to take the war to Russia. I hope to meet with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine soon. He regularly refers to these drone strikes as long-range sanctions. Let's give Ukraine even more sanctions, even more tools to fight back against the dictator Putin. This bill will be a moral achievement. It is a clear statement about the aggressor in Russia and the nation he is attacking. Ukraine targets facilities in Russia used to wage war. On the other hand, Vladimir Putin targets apartments, neighborhoods, churches, and corner stores. As Ukraine defends its homeland, Vladimir Putin callously sends the sons of Russia into bloodshed. He is not persuaded by appeals to human rights. I have made no secret of my complete disgust for the dictator Vladimir Putin and for his many war crimes against the Ukrainian people throughout this unprovoked conflict. If we have learned anything about the Russian despot Vladimir Putin over the course of this war, it is that the slaughter of civilians and even his own Russian troops give him no pause. His soulmates are the dead dictators of the previous century--Pol Pot, Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin. Vladimir Putin's name deserves to be stated among those disparate war criminals. He disregards human life, but he does prize the strength of his war machine. For this, Putin relies on his energy sales, and that is what we are getting to with this bill. This legislation will help curtail those energy sales. It will put maximum economic pressure on Vladimir Putin. This is the one thing--apparently the only thing he understands. President Trump and President Zelenskyy have long extended the hand of peace. Time and again, Putin has answered with more violence, more destruction, and more innocent Ukrainian and Russian lives snuffed out. Lindsey Graham understood Putin's calculation, and he wrote a bill to hit Putin where it hurts. We will have a chance to act on that bill today. I expect an overwhelming majority vote in favor.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the Records on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the RECORDS on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I have six requests for committees to meet during today's session of the Senate. They have the approval of the Majority and Minority Leaders. Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committees are authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate:

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, in January, Mississippi endured a historically catastrophic ice storm. At the height of the bad weather, nearly 90 percent of north Mississippi had lost power. The situation demanded swift thinking and a massive response. As always, State and local authorities responded--but so did everyday Mississippians, who stepped up to assist with recovery. One Mississippian responded with particular fervor. Brittany Clark, a family nurse Practitioner and mother, has long dedicated herself to serving her community. Through volunteerism and other acts of service, she has built a reputation for compassion, leadership, and reliability in times of crisis. During Winter Storm Fern, she built on that legacy. With remarkable courage and resourcefulness, Brittany mobilized critical relief efforts. She ensured that vulnerable communities had access to essential supplies, beginning first with those most at risk. By prioritizing the elderly and families without adequate resources, she ensured that none slipped through the cracks. Because of her efforts, many Mississippians found safety, warmth, and support during a time of dire need. Brittany grew up in Pontotoc, MS, and later acquired her bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from the Mississippi University for Women. She and her husband Trent Clark reside in New Albany with their two children. Brittany's action during Winter Storm Fern inspired others to step forward and serve, strengthening community bonds and contributing to a more resilient Mississippi. She helped reflect the very best of our State. I join my fellow Mississippians in expressing deep gratitude for Brittany's outstanding work.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, today I recognize the distinguished career and extraordinary service of LTG Thomas L. James, U.S. Army. A native of Petal, MS, Lieutenant General James served in uniform for more than four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the security of our Nation. In 1982, Lieutenant General James took the first step in his military journey by enlisting in the Mississippi National Guard. He served first as a medic and operating room technician with the 114th Support Group. Later, he joined the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne). From the beginning, Lieutenant General James was committed to soldier care, unit readiness, and high standards of service--values that would define his entire career. In 1988, after completing his education at the University of Southern Mississippi and earning his commission through ROTC, he entered Active Duty as an Army aviator. Lieutenant General James would go on to command at every level from platoon to brigade. In July 2014, he assumed leadership of the 1st Space Brigade. Under his charge, the Army's only brigade dedicated to space operations became more adept at missile warning, satellite communications, and space situational awareness. Combatant commanders across the globe benefit from these enhanced capabilities. At the Joint Functional Component Command--Space and the Joint Force Space Component Command, Lieutenant General James held a number of senior roles. Among his responsibilities, he handled global operations, planning, and exercises in support of joint and allied forces. When U.S. Space Command was reestablished in 2019, Lieutenant General James was selected to command Joint Task Force-Space Defense. He oversaw the defense of critical space assets and the integration of space capabilities into the joint force. He became the Deputy Commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Space Operations. Then, in December 2023, he was confirmed as Deputy Commander of U.S. Space Command. His promotion to lieutenant general took place at the armory in Hattiesburg, MS. It was the site where he took his oath of enlistment more than 40 years earlier, creating a fitting symbol of a life dedicated to service. General James' career spanned work in the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and the war in Afghanistan. He is a decorated veteran. His most notable awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, two awards of the Legion of Merit, and two Bronze Star Medals. Notably, he is the first Army space operations officer to advance beyond the rank of brigadier general, a testament to his pioneering role in elevating space as a warfighting domain. While I recognize Lieutenant General James, it is important to honor the sacrifice and support of his family. His wife Nicole and his daughter Rachel have stood beside him these many years. They have shared in the hardships of military life and contributed immeasurably to his success. Their strength, patience, and devotion exemplify the resilience of military families who give so much in service to the Nation. I speak on behalf of a thankful State when I express my gratitude to LTG Thomas L. James. We are grateful for his faithful service to the United States. His career reflects honor upon his character, his family, the people of Mississippi, the Army, U.S. Space Command, and the Nation he has so ably defended.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, and now, just briefly, to rise and oppose this additional War Powers Resolution, which has been brought by my colleague from Wisconsin. We don't mind debating things on the floor of the Senate, and I welcome them and certainly understand my friend's right and the right of my fellow Senators to disagree with the President's actions in Iran. I do not disagree with the President's actions in Iran. I support them, but I oppose this resolution. We have been through these votes before. We have been through these votes recently, and nothing has occurred in the makeup of this body or in the situation in Iran or the Middle East to materially change since the last time we voted on this matter. I think passing this resolution would be unwise, as it would have been unwise the numerous times we have turned it down already. It would curtail the President's authority; it would curtail his discretion while so many servicemembers remain engaged in the region; and I think it would be dangerous. It would tie the Commander in Chief's hands at a time when he needs maximum flexibility to eliminate the threat from Iran. I don't think negotiations are going to get us anywhere, but if my colleagues think they are worthwhile, then they should vote no on this resolution because a ``yes'' vote would weaken the hands of the negotiators the President has designated. If negotiations have a chance, the Senate should give them the leverage they need. We could, with one voice, give them a show of support and maximize whatever negotiating power they have. I think history will vindicate the decision that President Donald J. Trump has made with regard to the situation in Iran. Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon, and what we have done with our military goes a long way to assuring that they will never acquire a nuclear weapon. It is time for over 4\1/2\ decades of terrorist support from the Iranian regime to stop. And for that reason and also for the reasons that have been so eloquently enunciated by my colleagues on this side of the aisle for the past several weeks, I urge my colleagues not to support this resolution and to do so on behalf of the future of the American people. I yield the floor.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to executive session to consider the following nominations en bloc: Calendar No. 645, with the exception of Brigadier General Eric S. Strong; Calendar No. 669; Calendar No. 702 through Calendar No. 705; Calendar No. 706, with the exception of Lieutenant General Calvert L. Worth, Jr.; Calendar No. 707 through Calendar No. 710; and all nominations on the Secretary's desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy, with the exception of PN681, Vincent J. Noble, and PN835, Thomas P. MacNeil; that the nominations be confirmed en bloc; that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate, all en bloc; that no further motions be in order to any of the nominations; that the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action and the Senate then resume legislative session.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I will speak against the War Powers Resolution, but first I have a unanimous consent request to make, and so I ask that I be recognized for that purpose.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the Records on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators .

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Madam President, my friend from the State of Oregon is correct: We need someone in this position. He and many of his colleagues on the other side of the aisle are certainly entitled to their opinion that the President made a mistake in his considered decision. I think the President was correct in what he has done and what he is about to do in Iran, but the fact is we are there, and we need a commander of the U.S. Cyber Command and a Director of the National Security Agency. And I would point out to the Presiding Officer and to my colleagues and to anyone within the sound of my voice that General Rudd was reported out of the Armed Services Committee by a voice vote. No one even asked for a rollcall vote. So there is strong bipartisan support, even among people who agree with my colleague, about the wisdom of the President's action. Even among those people, they agreed by voice vote that General Rudd should be appointed. Operation Epic Fury is complex. It is demanding. The President is going to dismantle the terrorist regime in Iran, and our capabilities in the cyber domain in that regard have never been more important. So we need this gentleman in office. We will never get unanimity on every issue, but there is huge support on this side of the aisle and on the Democratic side of the aisle. And so, Madam President, at this point I ask unanimous consent that the pending nomination, Calendar No. 655, be confirmed; that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate; that no further motions be in order to the nomination; and that the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action and the Senate then resume legislative session.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, this weekend, our Commander in Chief made the most difficult decision a President can make. He ordered young American servicemembers into action. My friends on the other side of the aisle are challenging the President's choice, and they are entitled to do so. I do find myself amazed, from time to time, with their rhetoric on the floor this morning and this afternoon. To hear them, apparently, President Trump should have announced to the world that he was going to bomb the headquarters of the Ayatollah and destroy the leadership of Iran who has attacked the United States and killed Americans for over four decades. Apparently, if this war lasts as long as 5 weeks, we should agree that we are going to fold our tents and come home and leave the job undone. Apparently, the fact that the ruthless drug lord dictator of Venezuela, President Maduro, is out of office is a bad thing. I disagree with that, and I wonder how that rhetoric is going to last through the decades. We will see. I will vote no on the pending resolution. President Trump decided to attack Iran. That decision was profound, deliberate, and correct. The President understands the weight of war. He was clear-eyed about the risks, and he was honest with the American people. From very early on Saturday morning he said, ``We pray for every servicemember as they selflessly risk their lives to ensure that Americans and our children will never be threatened by a nuclear-armed Iran.'' Indeed, we must be mindful of the brave men and women deployed in this operation. And certainly, we grieve for the six American service men and women who died in the fighting. I also grieve for the thousands of Americans that have died over the last 47 years at the hands of the brutal Islamist ninth century regime in Iran. I grieve for those. We care for the civilians caught in harm's way. And yes, we are doing our best to get them out. War is hell, which is why we prioritize deterrence and engage only when absolutely necessary. But when we enter into combat, we must do so deliberately as this administration has done. My colleagues ask why are we doing this? The President has given at least four goals explicitly. We are doing this to destroy Iran's missile capabilities and their ability to produce missiles. That is a good thing. We are doing this to annihilate the Iranian Navy; to ensure the regime can no longer arm, direct, and fund the terrorist activities that have gone on for over four decades; and to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. That is why we are doing it. And that is why I will vote against this resolution. The facts on the ground reflect a limited set of goals. We have taken out their air defenses and missiles systems ahead of schedule. That is a good thing. Last week, Iran had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman. Today, they have none. That is a good thing. We can expect to see airstrikes continue until our military objectives are achieved, a task that will take weeks, not days. But we ought to stay there long enough to get it done. I think the President's decision was correct. For decades, the Iranian regime has killed thousands of Americans and thousands of citizens of our friends and allies and supported those who do. Too many American servicemembers have lost brothers in arms to Iranian violence. Too many parents have lost sons and daughters to Iranian aggression. For decades, Iran has been the world's leading sponsor of terrorism-- the Houthis, Hamas, other armed groups. The regime armed, funded, and trained terrorist groups across the region. These proxies have attacked and killed thousands of our people--thousands of our friends. Iran is a murderous partner of the overall ``axis of aggressors,'' which include China, Russia, and North Korea. They are all pals. They are all allies. The Ayatollah was a friend of the tyrants who lead those nations. He stood with Xi Jinping. He stood with the war criminal Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. Like them, the Supreme Leader violently suppressed his people. The regime was hell-bent on acquiring the world's worst weapons. If successful, they could have struck our friends, our bases, and, in time, our homeland, Washington, DC, America. President Trump, on the other hand, said from day one that he would keep Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and that is a major part of what this is about. He knew the Ayatollah had to be stopped, and he came to the correct conclusion that now was the time to do it. Already, Israel had devastated Iran's proxies. Last summer, President Trump rained down fire on Iran's nuclear facilities, and, in the past few months, untold numbers of Iranians have stood up to the regime. The citizens of Iran have stood up to this murderous regime in a massive show of opposition to the Ayatollah. Last Saturday morning, Iran had never been weaker. The time had come for the United States and for our ally Israel to strike. President Trump, the Commander in Chief, made that most difficult of decisions, and I think it will stand the test of time. This does not have to be a forever war. It is not an aimless exercise in the Middle East. This is a measured campaign to eliminate the Ayatollah's threat. It might take time to finish, and we are certainly not going to put a time limit on it. But that does not make it endless. It is, instead, a weighty, deliberate, and correct decision made to protect the United States of America, and I shall vote no on the resolution.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the Records on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, on behalf of the people of Mississippi, I commend Robin Killeen for more than 26 years of dedicated service to her community. The residents of Mississippi's gulf coast are better off because Robin has creatively and persistently extended a hand to those in need. A Pearl River County native, Robin Killeen devoted her career to meeting the staffing requirements of various companies. In 1999, she turned her talents in another direction. Robin founded Women of Wisdom, an organization that helps women uplift one another up through their faith, fellowship, and service. Since Robin launched Women of Wisdom, it has become a pillar of strength and wellbeing in south Mississippi. It is in Robin's nature to continue improving. She has expanded the resources offered by Women of Wisdom to include ``The Care Closet,'' a wardrobe filled with free clothing available to women in times of financial need. Robin has also pursued a holistic vision for uplifting Mississippi women, including a wellness group that improves physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. She has also extended the reach of her nonprofit by partnering with others in the Mississippi community, including Advocates for Freedom and Women's Resource Center. Through this collaboration, she is able to help men, women, and children in need. As impactful as her work with Women of Wisdom has been, Robin has gone even further, embracing leadership roles in several community organizations. She has served as executive president of the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce, as a member of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, as ambassador chairperson for the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, and as a leader with the Unified Coast Prayer Movement. Robin moved to the coast in 1986 and currently resides in Gulfport, MS, with her husband Pat Killeen. They are proud parents of two children and are thrilled to dote on five wonderful grandchildren. Robin Killeen's unrelenting dedication to community service represents the best of our State. I join my fellow Mississippians in thanking her for a quarter-century of meaningful contributions and lasting impact.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I submit this statement for the Record to recognize an extraordinary leader, patriot, and servant of our Nation, COL Matthew J. Jemmott, U.S. Army, on the occasion of his retirement following an exceptional 30-year career in service to our country. Colonel Jemmott's distinguished career is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of military service. A native of Pittsburgh, PA, and raised in New York and Pennsylvania, Colonel Jemmott began his military journey as an infantryman in the Pennsylvania National Guard. In 1999, he graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, earning a bachelor's degree in political science and criminal justice, and was commissioned as a military police officer. Throughout his career, Colonel Jemmott served in leadership positions ranging from platoon leader to Joint Task Force commander. His assignments took him across the globe, including Fort Bragg, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Italy, Germany, and Cuba. He deployed to Kosovo and Iraq and served two tours at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, including as the Commander of Joint Task Force-Guantanamo, leading over 1,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen, and coastguardsmen. Colonel Jemmott's expertise extended beyond tactical operations to the critical realm of congressional affairs. Selected for the Army's Congressional Fellowship Program, he served in the Senate for 15 months, addressing issues such as defense, veterans' affairs, foreign policy, and appropriations. He later served as an Army legislative liaison, managing portfolios that included soldier equipping and wheeled tactical vehicles. In his final military assignment, Colonel Jemmott served as the legislative assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and director of legislative affairs for the Joint Staff. In this role, he operated at the nexus of military strategy and legislative policy, providing critical guidance that shaped national defense priorities and strengthened civil-military relations. His strategic foresight and diplomatic acumen were instrumental in securing congressional support for key defense initiatives, budgets, and policy reforms.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, this month we will reach the fourth anniversary of Vladimir Putin's unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine. As we all know, Vladimir Putin is a war criminal, a KGB alumnus, an oppressor of the Russian people, and we also are finding out more and more that he is really bad at fighting a war. For 4 years, Putin has insisted that Russian victory is just around the corner. That is his dream, but it is a lie. The facts show that Putin is nowhere close to winning. Here are the facts: During the year 2024, Russia captured 0.6 percent of Ukrainian territory. Last year, it captured 0.8 percent. So 2 years of massive, tragic bloodshed caused by Vladimir Putin has resulted in 1.4 percent of enemy territory taken. So he is bad at tactics, he is bad at strategy, but he sent millions of Russian men into battle in his unprovoked and illegal invasion, inflicting 1.2 million casualties on his own people, on his own Russian people--1.2 million Russian casualties. He may have at one time been a successful KGB torturer, but he is a failure at today's attempt to overrun his neighbor by force. The Russian dictator is actually breaking records for his inability to achieve battlefield gains. Since 2024, his most significant offensives have scraped a meager 16 yards to 75 yards of ground per day--less than the length of a football field. This is among the slowest military campaigns since World War I. This would be embarrassing if it weren't so tragic for the civilized world and so tragic for the Russian people, not to mention the Ukrainian people. Since Putin's military campaign is failing, he has now doubled down on his attacks on civilians--unarmed civilians. As we all know, a bitter cold snap has descended on Ukraine, and the maniacal Vladimir Putin has turned this winter into a weapon. He has systematically targeted energy sites, wiping out power and turning homes into freezers. The results--specifically directed at civilians, directed at mothers and children--have been deadly. Putin knows that he has failed to achieve his objectives on the battlefield, so he continues trying to achieve it through civilian torture--even today. Indeed, Putin has failed in his two overriding goals. First of all, he has not weakened NATO. Under Putin's watch, NATO has expanded and awakened. Secondly, he has not brought Ukraine into Russia's orbit. Ukraine and its people have overwhelmingly moved philosophically further from Russia and toward the civilized democracies of this world. Putin is failing, but he still peddles the lie that Russian victory is right around the corner. And some American voices are repeating this misinformation. They are echoing this. And we have heard this for years. Yet, in spite of his years of failure, Vladimir Putin persists for the moment in killing Ukrainians and causing the deaths of Russians and his allies. We must show him it is time to stop, and that is what I am urging our government to do and this Senate to do. The West should unite around security guarantees and a framework for a just end to this war. NATO will continue purchasing American-made weapons for Ukraine. The United States can and should get Ukraine more offensive and defensive aerial capabilities. Congress should take up the Russian sanctions bill. We know it has overwhelming support on this side of the aisle, on that side of the aisle, and at the other end of the building. What are we waiting for? Let's do it. Secretary Hegseth and I have worked together to expedite weapons development. Already, we are seeing progress there. This week, the U.S. Air Force live-tested a new, low-cost, air-launched cruise missile called ERAM, and we did so just 16 months after the initial contract-- impressive. We can do better than that, but that is impressive. The missiles are now headed to Ukraine. We continue to work to stand up a pipeline of novel capabilities, built by American industry and built by American manufacturing workers, with which we can arm our ally Ukraine. For years, the Russian military has flung itself against the rock of a country it covets and a country it dwarfs in size but moving more slowly than nearly any military in a century. We need to show Vladimir Putin that it is time to stop. We must not let him off the mat. We must increase the pressure. I yield the floor.

Mr. WICKER

Mr. WICKER. I yield the floor.

Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, in a moment, my friend and fellow Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith will join me in taking a few moments to highlight the damage done--the devastation done--by Winter Storm Fern, along with the resilience of our community and the citizens and leadership there. Fern covered much of Mississippi with freezing rain, and then a week of low temperatures locked in a blanket of ice. Nearly 200,000 homes lost power, and road travel became almost impossible. Temperatures are rising a bit now, but, tragically, there is still very much devastation. At this point, 26 Mississippians have lost their lives because of this winter storm, and that number, unfortunately, is rising every day. I do want to commend, as Senator Hyde-Smith will, the communities-- the churches, the schools, the businesses, the donation centers, the neighbors using Facebook to coordinate food distribution and boost morale--and the crews from Mississippi and from all around the country coming to help. At this point, 80 percent of the affected homes now have their power restored. I commend the local leaders, mayors, commissioners, and the response team from FEMA, many of whom we know personally. We are thankful for what they have done and for their resilience. I have said this in past years. In Mississippi, our Federal delegation is in this for the long haul, just like we are with the tornadoes that occurred earlier. And we are grateful to the President and for our friends at FEMA for helping us recover. Now, if I might, before I yield to my dear friend, I want to point out an article that was in the magazine Garden & Gun--published by Garden & Gun--some 2 days ago by Beth Ann Fennelly of Oxford, MS. Beth Ann Fennelly, for 5 years, was our State's poet laureate. And she published this article in Garden & Gun, which says: A beloved oak fell, and Oxford rose. She could just as easily have said the entire State of Mississippi rose. But she talks about the experience that her family encountered, and you can multiply that times all of the households. She says: It was three a.m., and my husband and I and the youngest of our three children--the only one still living at home-- huddled in a dark living room, jumping out of our skins with each new explosion, each crack of gunfire. Except it wasn't explosives or gunpowder. It was our trees blowing their heads off and smashing to the earth or thudding to our roof. She points out that we had learned during a severe ice storm some decades ago that: . . . water freezing in trees expands them too rapidly. They explode from pressure, taking power lines with them. Some folks lost power for weeks. It is the sound of gunfire. A very good article, very well-written by someone who would be poet laureate. And she ends bemoaning the tree, but observing and celebrating the spirit of Mississippi. And she says: The ice will melt, and the people of Mississippi will roll up their sleeves and crank their chainsaws. The logs will be cleared. But an uncanny new light will compress the violently lopped canopies. On our corner, the picnic blanket of shade our oak had tossed down will go unfurled. The bewildered birds' questions will go unanswered. The squirrels will take new routes to work. The anthem of November will be forever altered without the north wind's scattershot of acorns on the roof. Then she ends by asking: Do trees have souls? Maybe it's an unanswerable question-- She says-- Or maybe the answer has never been more obvious. I ask unanimous consent, Mr. President, that this article by Beth Ann Fennelly be printed in the Record after my remarks.