As the U.S. Ambassador to Japan and grandson of Ukrainian immigrants, I have a moral obligation to do everything I can to support the brave Ukrainian people in the face of Putin’s illegal war. These are unprecedented times which call for unprecedented actions. In partnership with the Government of Japan, Amy and I have offered to host Ukrainian evacuee families at our official residence in Tokyo for a transitional period while more permanent housing is identified. I commend the Government of Japan and the growing list of Japanese cities and municipalities who are offering accommodations for Ukrainian evacuees. We would like to do our part, too, by assisting the evacuees until they are able to move into more permanent housing.
As Russia expands its attacks on innocent and unarmed civilians, every one of us must do our part to stand up for freedom and against oppression. Whether by donating to humanitarian relief operations, standing up for principles by halting commercial operations in Russia, or even opening one’s home, everyone has a role to play. I am deeply proud of how Americans and Japanese, whether in government or as individuals, have come together in the defense of Ukraine, and freedom, in this time of crisis.