EDITOR:

Below is an open letter to Congressman Bergman.

Using Congressman Bergman’s website, I sent a message to the Congressman on February 20, 2025. His office acknowledged receiving the message, but I haven’t received a response yet. I thought publishing the message might prompt a response from the Congressman. I’ve edited the last paragraph for clarity.

On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Newsweek published a video accompanied by a report, stating that President Trump had made a statement on Tuesday asserting that Ukraine should have ended the war in three years. Trump emphasized that Ukraine should have never initiated the conflict and that a deal could have been made.

In response, former Vice President Pence wrote on X: Mr. President, Ukraine did not ‘start’ this war. Russia launched an unprovoked and brutal invasion, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives. The path to peace must be built on the truth.”

Three years ago, on February 24, 2022, Fox News reported that Russia had invaded Ukraine in the largest European attack since World War II. You can read the full article here: https://www.foxnews.com/world/russian-invades-ukraine-largest-europe-attack-wwii.

At the time of the Russian invasion, it appeared that you took a firm stance against Russia. On February 22, 2022, the Manistee News quoted you as saying that the unfolding events in Ukraine were an “absolute tragedy and an act of war against the Ukrainian people.” You further stated that Putin was an “out-of-touch bully dictator.” You urged President Biden to step up, demonstrate strength, and lead the world in a unified economic and diplomatic effort to isolate Russia through sanctions and provide the necessary resources to protect allies in Ukraine and throughout Europe.

On March 6, 2022 TV 6 reported you saying, “When I say sanction, it’s not just sanctioning a country; it’s sanctioning the individuals, the oligarchs, and others who could potentially influence Putin’s decisions. The second priority is to ensure that the Ukrainians receive the weapons system they need to defend themselves.”

Considering your influence with Republicans and the President, I believe you have valuable insights to share.

I would like to know your thoughts on whether Ukraine initiated the current conflict with Russia. If so, please provide your reasoning. If you do not believe Ukraine is responsible for the Russian invasion, educate the President on this matter.

Richard Clark

Escanaba