Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Sadly, on February 24, war criminal Putin launched an unprovoked, unjustified murderous war of aggression against the people of Ukraine. The humanitarian toll has been devastating. More than 5 million refugees have fled Ukraine. More than 7 million are believed to be internally displaced, and we have seen on our screens the heart- wrenching images of Putin's horrific war crimes in Bucha, Mariupol, and elsewhere. The economic toll for Ukraine is no less devastating. The World Bank has forecasted that Ukraine's economy could contract by 45 percent this year with a worst-case scenario seeing its GDP shrink by 75 percent. The Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said last week during a visit to Washington, that Ukraine would need around $5 billion a month in budgetary support as long as the war continued and then roughly $600 billion for a broader rebuilding effort. To rebuild this country, the Ukrainian Prime Minister requested not only additional financial support from the United States and its allies and partners, but also the transfer of Russian assets that have been frozen by the global sanctions regime to Ukraine. The U.S. must answer this call. The resolution we are considering urges the President to establish an interagency working group to determine the constitutional mechanisms through which the United States could not only freeze but seize the assets of Russian oligarchs within the United States if this property was derived through corruption linked to the Putin regime. The liquidated funds are to be repurposed for the benefit of the people of Ukraine, including post-conflict reconstruction when the Ukrainians win, humanitarian assistance, and assistance for the security forces of the Government of Ukraine. I was grateful to colead this legislation with our colleague, Tom Malinowski of New Jersey. Thanks to an amendment from our colleague, Peter Meijer, the bill also urges the administration to expand sanctions on members of the Russian Parliament, the duma, who voted in support of recognizing the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republic, which are illegal fabrications. This vote served as part of Putin's pretext to Russia's unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against the people of Ukraine. Anyone who supported that vote must fall under U.S. sanctions--full stop. The administration needs to seriously consider how we can use the frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine fight and continue winning, then rebuild its country. Therefore, I urge all colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, rather than financing war crimes in Ukraine and multimillion-dollar yachts and real estate for Putin's cronies, this money could be much better spent on urgently needed humanitarian aid and weapons for Ukraine. This makes sense for the people of Ukraine as well as for the American taxpayer. I, therefore, urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I especially appreciate the people of China. My father served in 1944 as a member of the Flying Tigers, the 14th Air Force of the Army Air Corps of the United States, to defend the people of China in World War II. He served in Kunming, Chengdu, and Xi'an, and he had a deep affection for the people of China. We want the best for the people of China. Sadly, at every step of Russia's unprovoked, full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the CCP has chosen to reject the free world and embrace Putin's mass murder. Just last week, one of the CCP's top Foreign Ministry officials promised to increase strategic coordination with Russia, regardless of Russia's war crimes. But we know that Ukraine will win with the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. They need to be held accountable at the CCP, and Congressman Andy Barr's legislation does just that. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Midlands of South Carolina were shocked to learn of the shooting death Sunday of Cayce police officer, Andrew ``Drew'' Barr, age 27. Killed in the line of duty, Officer Barr was a brave, dedicated public servant, who will always be cherished as a champion for law and order. Officer Barr was familiar with danger. Shortly after graduating from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in 2017, he and another Cayce police officer were shot during an incident that involved a car chase and foot pursuit. They were awarded medals for bravery. ``Our hearts are breaking in Cayce. Officer Drew Barr has been an important part of the Cayce family since 2016,'' heralded by Cayce Mayor Elise Partin. ``Officer Barr gave the ultimate sacrifice for us to make us safe,'' confirmed by Cayce Police Chief Chris Cowan. Cayce is fortunate to have Mayor Partin, Chief Cowan, and a law- enforcement-experienced councilman, Tim James. Our prayers for the family of Texas National Guardsman Bishop Evans, who is a hero for trying to protect the drug-infested southern border. God bless Ukraine. God bless Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to report that the total export sales from the State of South Carolina topped nearly $30 billion last year. Increasing their influence, State exporters reached over 195 countries, with Germany and Canada tops. Korean investments are monumental by Samsung, and I praise today the Korean delegation of Dr. Jin Park and Tae-yong Cho. Most notably, the Palmetto State leads the Nation in export sales of tires produced by Michelin, Bridgestone, Giti Tire, Continental, and Trelleborg Wheel Systems. South Carolina also leads in passenger motor vehicle exports, including BMW, Volvo Cars, Honda, and Mercedes-Benz Vans. In order to further support this vital market, South Carolina ports have invested over $2 billion in infrastructure, according to South Carolina Port Authority President Jim Newsome, soon to be succeeded by COO Barbara Melvin, backed up by Governor Henry McMaster. In conclusion, God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. God bless Volodymyr Zelenskyy as he fights to maintain his freedom for all the people of the world.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the civilized world is shocked at the discovery of mass murder by Putin in Bucha, Ukraine. It is inspiring the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the immediate responses by Germany to Italy for expelling Putin's murder- complicit diplomats. With innocent civilians discovered having their hands tied behind their backs, shot in the head, it is clear, war criminal Putin must be stopped with immediate military aid. Biden is correct to recognize this as part of the worldwide conflict of democracy with rule of law versus autocracy with rule of gun. An undisputed atrocity is the Putin detention of Mayor Olga Sukhenko of Motyzhyn (Ma-ta-jhin), her husband, Igor and her son, Alexander. Later, they were discovered murdered mercilessly in a shallow grave. I have faith in the Russian people with a great culture betrayed by the war criminal, Putin. There is legislation for defecting Russian troops, diplomats, and Duma members to be provided expedited refugee status to America and up to $100,000 for any Russian military equipment turned over to Ukraine. Ukraine will achieve victory. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Congratulations to Mayor Dan Rickenmann and the city of Columbia for sending aid to Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the civilized world is shocked at the discovery of mass murder by Putin in Bucha, Ukraine. It is inspiring the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the immediate responses by Germany to Italy for expelling Putin's murder-complicit diplomats. With innocent civilians discovered having their hands tied behind their backs, shot in the head, it is clear, war criminal Putin must be stopped with immediate military aid. Biden is correct to recognize this as part of the worldwide conflict of democracy with rule of law versus autocracy with rule of gun. An undisputed atrocity is the Putin murder of the mayor of Motyzhyn and her family. I have faith in the Russian people with a great culture betrayed by the war criminal, Putin. There is legislation for defecting Russian troops, diplomats, and Duma members to be provided expedited refugee status to America and up to $100,000 for any Russian military equipment turned over to Ukraine. Ukraine will achieve victory. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Congratulations to Mayor Dan Rickenmann and the city of Columbia for sending aid to Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, The Wall Street Journal editorialized: ``Let Ukraine Go on Offense Against Russia.'' ``As Russia's war on Ukraine enters its sixth week, the script has flipped. Russia's advance has stalled, and Ukraine now wants to go on offense to push back Russian forces from the land they have taken. But the country needs U.S. and NATO help to do it.'' ``Now is the time to help Ukraine take the offensive. Reports of demoralized Russian forces are more frequent, including defectors who have taken equipment with them.'' ``Throughout this conflict, the Biden administration has been slow. . . . `' Now ``is the time to keep the pressure on to truly achieve a strategic victory for Ukraine and NATO.'' I have faith in the Russian people, a great culture betrayed by war criminal Putin. There is legislation for defecting Russian troops, diplomats, and Duma members to be provided immediate refugee status in America and up to $100,000 for any Russian military equipment turned over to Ukraine. God bless Ukraine, God save Ukraine, and long live Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Major General Brad Owens for his more than 37 years of distinguished service to the United States Army and South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG). Major General Owens served as the Assistant Adjutant General for Joint Force Headquarters, South Carolina where he worked to increase the readiness and capabilities of our military. Major General Owens was the driving force behind the modernization of SCARNG facilities by partnering with academic institutions such as The Citadel, USC-Upstate, and Greenville Tech. His tremendous efforts have also set the conditions for an Aiken Readiness Center located on campus of the University of South Carolina-Aiken. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Major General Owens served as the designated Dual-Status Commander for Defense Support of Civil Authorities where he led the effort to establish a Unified Command Group with multiple State Agencies that successfully responded to the needs of South Carolina. His service to the community and the guard will have an everlasting, positive effect far into the future. His tireless work has led to strong relationships with combatant commands worldwide that increased the SCARNG support to over sixteen different countries. More notably, Major General Owens was instrumental in the SCARNG's fruitful partnership with Colombia, which resulted in his receiving of two decorations, the Faith in the Cause and the Torre de Castilla medal. His outstanding career is further highlighted with his many decorations and badges such as Combat Action Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Salvage Diver Badge, the Sapper identification tab, the Bronze Star Medal, six Meritorious Service Medals, seven Army Commendation Medals, and the Engineer Regiment's Silver de Fleury. Major General Owens is known throughout the Aiken community and the state for his steady leadership and integrity. His notable service to both his country and community has made him beloved by those who worked with him and know him. We cannot thank him enough for his many decades of service to both his country and community.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, happy 100th anniversary to the Reserve Organization of America, formerly known as the Reserve Officers Association of the United States. As the only organization solely dedicated to supporting the Reserve components at all ranks of all services, the ROA is a professional association that supports the rights and benefits of its members and their families, promoting national security. I know firsthand the effectiveness of ROA, having served with Colonel Leonard Metz as Midland's chapter president. Shortly after World War I, in 1922, General John J. Pershing helped establish the ROA to ensure that America had a strong Reserve force to reinforce peace through strength. ROA membership is open to all Federally commissioned officers, warrant officers, noncommissioned officers, enlisted, and their families of all services, along with the Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th and the global war on terrorism which comes to America, sadly, from a safe haven in Afghanistan. Long live Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Ukraine, led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is winning and will be victorious over Putin. Biden must send military aid now. The ruse provided by incompetent Russian generals to claim eastern Ukraine is a trick. Just as America would not surrender by giving up a small part of the Eastern United States, such as Delaware, we know Putin must be defeated by peace through strength. Victory is the only option to stop autocracy by rule of gun against democracy by rule of law, a clash of civilizations. The Chinese Communist Party will be stopped from mass murder in Taiwan. Iranian mullahs will be stopped from vaporizing the people of Israel. The world's largest democracy of India can thrive in a stabilized world. I have faith in the Russian people, a great culture with great cultural influence adopted in America. There is legislation for defecting Russian troops, diplomats, and Duma members to be provided immediate refugee status to America and up to $100,000 for any Russian military equipment turned over to Ukraine. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, during a Monday address to the Ukrainian people, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a direct appeal to soldiers of Russia, asking: ``. . . why should you die?'' Zelensky said: ``We hear what you really think about this senseless war . . .'' Then telling those who surrender: ``. . . we will treat you the way people are supposed to be treated'' and ``. . . not how you are being treated in your army.'' Today, Putin declared war on the Russian people. His call for self- cleansing is a repeat of the murderous Stalinists purges leading to Soviet Socialist nonpersons who disappeared. Today, I will be offering legislation for expedited refugee status to America for defecting members of the Duma, diplomatic personnel, and Russian Government officials. This reinforces the bipartisan legislation for Russian military defectors for expedited refugee status to America. The defectors who turn over equipment to Ukraine will receive up to $100,000. I also have a bill in Congress for a bust of President Zelenskyy to be placed in the U.S. Capitol. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I was grateful to attend the joint session of Congress today to hear directly from the valiant Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He is a world hero for freedom and democracy. Courageous Ukrainians will always be cherished as they protect rule of law over rule by gun by authoritarians in a worldwide conflict. On Tuesday, President Zelenskyy clarified the war is not against Russian citizens. Putin is the mass murderer. President Zelenskyy called for Russian soldiers to surrender, and I have offered a bipartisan bill in Congress to reward Russian defectors with expedited refugee status to the United States, with up to $100,000 for Russian equipment turned over to Ukraine. In the congressional address today, President Zelenskyy cited Mount Rushmore for its busts of American Founders, and I have a bipartisan bill in Congress for a bust of President Zelenskyy to be placed in the U.S. Capitol, in the tradition of Churchill, Havel, and Kossuth. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Rev. Dr. Derek W. H. Thomas, now an American citizen from Wales, United Kingdom, being the Senior Minister of the First Presbyterian Church of Columbia founded in 1795 delivered a heartfelt prayer on February 27th for the embattled people of Ukraine with love for the people of Russia. The prayer was authored by Rev. Steven D. Froehlich of New Life Presbyterian Church of Ithaca, NY. The ministry of Dr. Thomas is so meaningful to our family with six generations having attended First Presbyterian Church of Columbia. Lord, destroy Putin the tyrant Lord, have mercy on Putin the man made in your image Lord, overwhelm the Russian soldiers with the guilt of the evil to which they are party Lord, show the Russian soldiers the forgiveness that can be theirs in Christ Lord, guide the weapons of Ukraine to destroy the weapons of their enemy Lord, may the Russian missiles go astray and miss their targets Lord, as you have done before, send your angels through the camp breathing chaos and destruction among the Russian army Lord, as you have done before, send your angels to announce the promise of peace and life in Christ Lord, keep the Ukrainian people safe and the leaders alive, wise and courageous Lord, may the citizens of Russia flood the streets with protest against the evil of their leaders Lord, may the Russian fathers and mothers call to their children bearing arms to lay down their weapons Lord, may the United States and the nations of Europe be of one mind and resolve to stand against evil, even when it proves costly Lord, may peace return to the Ukraine and Russia Lord, as your children were vital to the collapse of the Iron Curtain, may they once again be instruments of peace and justice Lord, may the Gospel be proclaimed in word and deed so that in war and in peace, in life and in death, in joy and in suffering, Christ might be lifted up, loved and worshipped as the Prince of Peace. ``Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid . . . I have told you all this so you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials, but take heart, because I have overcome the world.'' John 14:27, 16:33 In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, war criminal Putin is betraying the young soldiers of Russia to death. 18- to 20-year-old conscripts are mercilessly sent to Ukraine on a training mission not knowing they were going to murder Ukrainian families of children, women, and men. Russian mothers and fathers are lied to by Putin that this is a ``special mission.'' I especially understand foreign service. My father served in the Flying Tigers with the Chinese military in Kunming, Chengdu, and Xi'an to stop aggression in World War II. As a parent, I am grateful my son Alan served in Iraq, my son Add in Iraq, my son Julian in Egypt, and my son Hunter in Afghanistan. I know Russian families are concerned for their sons who are being sacrificed by Putin, murdering for oil, money, and power in Putin's war. That is why I have offered bipartisan legislation to Russian military defectors for expedited refugee status to America. Defectors who turn over equipment to Ukraine will receive a payment of up to $100,000. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the murderous Putin's war on Ukraine is recognized worldwide as criminal. I am grateful that America and our NATO allies have unified to support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian people. I have faith in the Russian people, who I have met on numerous visits across Russia, that they will reject Putin's war atrocities. Russia is a nation of world-significant art, music, architecture, literature, and can change. And that is why I am introducing a bill to encourage Russian military defectors, true Russian patriots, with immediate refugee status in America with up to $100,000 for Russian military equipment transferred to Ukraine. Putin betrays the troops to death for his purpose of oil, money, power. Additionally, I will introduce a bill for a bust of President Volodymyr Zelensky to be placed in the U.S. Capitol, as is the bust of Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Churchill was the wartime leader of World War II, and Volodymyr Zelensky is the wartime leader in Putin's war. On Saturday, I was very grateful to be part of the Zoom address by President Zelensky to the U.S. Congress. And today, he is addressing the British Parliament. In December, I visited Kyiv, and I was so inspired by the people of Ukraine. It is a modern, free-market democracy with extraordinary success for its citizens of eight-lane boulevards with modern SUVs. Today, Putin's war is conducting mass murder, defaming the people of Russia as innocent women and children are being murdered. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the murderous Putin's war on Ukraine is criminal. I am grateful that America and our NATO allies are unified to support Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian people. I have faith in the Russian people, who I have met on numerous visits across Russia, that they will reject Putin's war atrocities. A nation of world-significant art, music, and literature can change, and that is why I am introducing a bill to encourage Russian military defectors with immediate refugee status in America, with up to $100,000 for any Russian military equipment transferred to Ukraine. Putin betrays the troops to death. Additionally, I will introduce a bill for a bust of President Volodymyr Zelensky to be placed in the U.S. Capitol, as is the bust of Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Churchill was the wartime leader of World War II, and Zelensky is the wartime leader in Putin's war. God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. Mike Johnson for his leadership and courage to present the truth tonight. Madam Speaker, last Friday, I was grateful as the ranking member of the U.S. delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to address the Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna, Austria. Our delegation was ably led by co-chair Steve Cohen. The bipartisan United States delegation of Democrats and Republicans, being transatlantic with our valued European and Indo-Pacific allies have been unintentionally united about Putin's war of mass murder in Ukraine, violating the principles of the Helsinki Final Act. This emphasizes the devastating human cost of Putin's war against the families of Ukraine, isolating Russia and Belarus from the modern world. This is Putin's war, as correctly identified by Der Spiegel, the German news magazine. It is not a war in Ukraine. It is not Russia's war. This is clearly to be forever condemned as Putin's war. The responsibility of an insane czar who is trying to build his power based on oil, money, and power, betraying young Russians to death. OSCE monitors have impartially relayed the tragic reality of this conflict every day under often difficult and dangerous conditions. The Putin government and its proxies must restore the monitors' ability to fulfill their mandate. I am personally grateful to have visited Russia a number of times where I was so impressed by the talented citizens who today who are being betrayed by Putin in his obsession for oil, money, and power. Two months ago, I visited Kyiv, and it is horrifying to know of the attacks. The pictures that we see here--they have been sent worldwide--this is the road to the airport. I was so impressed when I was there in December to see the four, six, eight, now ten lanes of boulevards filled with cars, a very modern society with high rise buildings that could be anywhere in America, could be anywhere in the world, in the modern world. Now, sadly, we see that the cars are congested there and blocked. You have families. They have their pets with them. They have all the property that they could possibly carry. They have children. They have infants. They have elderly and sick persons and are trying to flee the rocket attacks solely the responsibility of Putin. Sadly, in Belarus, dictator Lukashenko has become a puppet of Putin to subject Belarusians to autocracy, facilitating Putin's illegal war on the people of Ukraine. It is inspiring that the legal president of Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, would have her first loyalty to the people of Belarus, not to the war criminal, Putin. In conclusion, God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Volodymyr Zelensky. God bless America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the State of the Union last night was a disconnect from the reality of Biden failures. The Wall Street Journal is correct. He missed the moment. The paper went further to describe what Biden did not say: More defense spending to meet the threats from autocrats? No. A new appreciation of the contribution of fossil fuels to American and European security? Not a word. A note that government spending contributed to the highest inflation rate in 40 years? Nope. I personally was disappointed that there was no mention of leaving Americans behind in Afghanistan, 13 patriots murdered in Kabul. And now Afghanistan is a safe haven for terrorists who can come across the open border to attack American families. An anxious world is looking for American leadership in a dangerous new era. I hope the President will change course for peace through strength. In conclusion, God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, I was grateful, as the ranking member of the U.S. delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, to address the Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna, Austria. Our delegation was ably led by Co-Chair Steve Cohen. The bipartisan United States delegation of Democrats and Republicans being transatlantic, with our valued European and Indo-Pacific allies, have been unintentionally united about the Putin war of mass murder in Ukraine, violating the principles of the Helsinki Final Act. Here, we want to emphasize the devastating human cost of the Putin war against the families of Ukraine, isolating Russia and Belarus from the modern world. I was grateful over the years to have visited Russia a number of times where I was so impressed by the talented citizens. Today, they are being betrayed by Putin in his obsession for oil, money, and power. Two months ago, I visited Kyiv and it is horrifying to know of the attacks. Sadly, in Belarus, dictator Lukashenko has become a puppet facilitating the Putin war. It is inspiring that the legal President of Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, would have her first loyalty to the people of Belarus, not the war criminal, Putin. In conclusion, God bless Ukraine. God save Ukraine. Long live President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations to Colin Demarest, an appreciated journalist of Aiken, South Carolina, for his new assignment at C4ISRNET, a publication covering emerging issues and trends in global military transformation in Washington. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Colin began his journalism career at The Berkshire View as a featured writer. Later, he became an editor and reporter at Limestone Communications, where he covered government in five different cities and two regional school districts. When he joined the Aiken Standard, Colin initially focused on reporting on the Aiken city government. After some time, he was assigned to report on the Savannah River Site National Laboratory, a multi-billion dollar facility with about 11,000 employees. At times, this assignment brought him to Washington, D.C., where he reported on anything involving the Savannah River Site. Colin was thoughtful to come to many events over the years. He would report on my Legislative Agenda Tours, Bus Tours, and any other local events that I attended in South Carolina. As a former journalist myself, I know Colin will be successful at his new assignment reporting from the Pentagon. I wish the best for Colin Demarest in all his future endeavors.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the clearest revelation of Iran with duplicitous intent in the insane nuclear agreement discussions is uninterrupted missile development designed for nuclear attacks on Israel and the United States. The murderous boasting of capabilities is confirmed by a Reuters report by Parisa Hafezi published by February 9, 2022. While negotiators blather with meaningless deadlines, the delivery systems continue unabated. It is crucial we stand with Saudi Arabia and our Arab Gulf partners. I appreciate the efforts of the America Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) to alert the American people of the growing threats. President Betsy Korn and South Carolina Midlands coordinator Dr. David Kulbersh are crucial for raising the alarm over Iran's murderous intent. I am also confident the venerated American Jewish Congress led by Jack Rosen will raise awareness of the growing threat. [From Reuters, Feb. 9, 2022] Iran Unveils Long-Range Missile as Vienna Nuclear Talks Resume (By Parisa Hafezi) Dubai.--Iran unveiled a new domestically-made missile with a range of 1,450 kilometers on Wednesday, state TV reported, a day after Tehran and Washington resumed indirect talks to salvage a 2015 nuclear deal. Iran, which has one of the biggest missile programmes in the Middle East, says its ballistic missiles have a range of up to 2,000 km (1,200 miles) and are capable of reaching its arch-foe Israel and U.S. bases in the region. State TV displayed the new surface-to-surface ``Kheibar Shekan'' (Kheibar buster) missile, which refers to an ancient Jewish oasis called Kheibar in the Arabian Peninsula's Hijaz region that was overrun by Muslim warriors in the 7th century. ``This long-range missile is domestically manufactured by the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC). . . . It has high accuracy and is propelled by solid fuel and is capable of penetrating missile shields,'' Iranian state media reported. Tehran regards its missile programme as an important deterrent against the United States, Israel and other adversaries. It has rejected Western demands to halt its ballistic missile work. ``Iran will continue advancing its ballistic missile programme,'' Iran's armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri told a ceremony at an IRGC base where the new missile was displayed, Iranian media reported.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am grateful to recognize Queen Elizabeth's 70th year on the British throne. She has been Great Britain's head of state through 14 different American Presidents, meeting with 13 of them. I include in the Record, an article from The Washington Times of February 7, 2022 by Danica Kirka, celebrating Queen Elizabeth's' time on the throne. I appreciate Ambassador Karen Pierce for her service in Washington. I particularly appreciate the Queen's service as I am a native of Charleston, South Carolina, which is the most British city in North America founded by British settlers in 1670. As Co-Chairman of the U.K. Caucus, I was grateful to have hosted the Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, of the U.K. Parliament, at the Capitol Hill Club last week for dinner, as we remain united in supporting the independence of Ukraine. Queen Elizabeth II Marks 70th Anniversary of Her Rule London.--As the United Kingdom marked the 70th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's rule on Sunday, the queen looked to the future of the monarchy. In remarks delivered in time for Sunday morning's front pages, the queen expressed a ``sincere wish'' that Prince Charles' wife, Camilla, should be known as ``Queen Consort'' when her son succeeds her as expected. With those words the monarch sought to answer once and for all questions about the status of Camilla, who was initially shunned by fans of the late Princess Diana, Charles' first wife. ``The queen is such a realist and, you know, she's got a business to run,'' historian Robert Lacey said. ``Well, they call it `The Firm,' don't they? And this really brings Camilla into the firm properly now and for the future.'' It took years for many in Britain to forgive Charles, whose admitted infidelity and long-time links to Camilla torpedoed his marriage to Diana. The popular, glamorous princess died in a Paris car crash in 1997, five years after the couple separated in a messy public split. But the public mood has softened since Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles in 2005. Now known as the Duchess of Cornwall, the 74-year-old Camilla has taken on roles at more than 100 charities, focusing on a wide range of issues including promoting literacy, supporting victims of domestic violence and helping the elderly. Her down-to-earth style and sense of humor eventually won over many Britons. Her warmth softened Charles' stuffy image and made him appear more approachable, if not happier, as he cut ribbons, unveiled plaques and waited for his chance to reign. Charles, 73, has long made it clear that he wants Camilla to be known as queen when he ultimately succeeds his mother on the throne. In his own message congratulating the queen on her long years of service, Charles thanked his mother for her support. ``We are deeply conscious of the honour represented by my mother's wish,'' they said. ``As we have sought together to serve and support Her Majesty and the people of our communities, my darling wife has been my own steadfast support throughout.'' The queen's comments are remarkable in that they brought back memories of one of the lowest moments of her 70 years on the throne. The royal family was widely criticized for its initial silence in the aftermath of Diana's death, with one national newspaper proclaiming ``Your People Are Suffering. Speak to Us Ma'am.'' In backing Charles and Camilla, the queen remembered the support she received from her husband, Prince Philip, who died last year after decades at her side, as well as the role her mother played as the wife of a king. ``I am fortunate to have had the steadfast and loving support of my family. I was blessed that, in Prince Philip, I had a partner willing to carry out the role of consort and unselfishly make the sacrifices that go with it,'' she wrote. ``It is a role I saw my own mother perform during my father's reign.'' ``And when, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me.'' But for now, the queen remains at work. On Sunday, Buckingham Palace released a photo of the monarch sitting in front of her official red dispatch box with government papers spread out before her. The 95-year-old monarch is expected to spend the day at Sandringham, the country estate in Norfolk where her father, King George VI, died suddenly on Feb. 6, 1952, making her queen. ``It is a sad day and one that reminds her of the close relationship she had with him,'' said Lacey, the historical consultant to the Netflix series ``The Crown.'' ``(Sunday) is a day when, by tradition, she likes to go back to Sandringham, the country roots of the family,'' he told The Associated Press. ``He liked to consider himself the Squire of Sandringham, the King of Britain, but he'd go out and walk the fields, shoot the game. That's what she remembers.'' While Sunday's anniversary is expected to be low-key, public celebrations of the monarch's platinum jubilee are scheduled for June, when the weather improves. The festivities will include a military parade, neighborhood parties and a competition to create a new dessert--a mini extravaganza that will take place over a special four-day weekend June 2-5. The celebrations are meant to recognize the woman who became a symbol of stability for the U.K. as it navigated an age of uncertainty. Britain's longest-serving monarch, the only sovereign most Britons have ever known, she has been a constant presence as Britain navigated the end of empire, the swinging '60s, the labor strife of the 1980s, international terrorism, Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. In her message, the queen promised to keep working for the U.K. and the Commonwealth. ``As we mark this anniversary, it gives me pleasure to renew to you the pledge I gave in 1947 that my life will always be devoted to your service,'' she wrote.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am sincerely grateful to recognize Emily Saleeby, deputy chief of staff for the Second Congressional District of South Carolina. Emily has been dedicated and passionate serving the people of South Carolina. A native of Florence, and a graduate of the University of South Carolina, where she was student body vice president, Emily began working in Congress in 2014. She has achieved being someone who could be relied on for being a dedicated public servant. She is returning to South Carolina for a position with Savannah River Mission Completion, where she will continue to be successful. I know her parents, Suzanne and John Saleeby, siblings, Lauren and Timothy, her golden retriever, Cato, and her colleagues share my deep appreciation for her continued success. Lebanese Americans are vital in South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Putin continues threatening military aggression against Ukraine, now over 100,000 troops, which would only enrich Putin cronies and oligarchs, and which would be catastrophic for the people of Russia. A Putin invasion would result in needless and horrific loss of both Ukrainian and Russian lives. Having returned from a recent delegation to Kyiv, I saw firsthand the courage of the people of Ukraine for independence. Putin should know that both parties in America are united in support of the Ukrainian people. NATO is also unified as Chancellor Olaf Scholz promised today. I am grateful that Biden has changed course to reinforce the Trump policies of sending defensive weapons to Ukraine. Putin aggression against Ukraine must be deterred for the benefit of the people of Russia and the people of Ukraine. In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America.