WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 15, 2026) – Following the Warsaw Security Forum, McCain Institute Executive Director Dr. Evelyn Farkas issued the following statement regarding recent developments between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.
“John McCain stood with Ukraine because he understood the necessity of countering Russian imperialism, and standing up for Ukrainian sovereignty and the sanctity of international borders. We reaffirm his commitment and join bipartisan calls for the U.S. to withdraw from any diesel deal with Russia. Such a deal won’t lower prices for Americans, but it will benefit Vladimir Putin, and help fund Russia’s ongoing war against the Ukrainian people and threats against U.S. allies.
“Coming out of Warsaw, it is clear that Russia poses an urgent threat not just to Ukraine but to Europe as a whole. Russia’s ongoing terrorist attacks upon European infrastructure are an alarming escalation. The quickest way to stop them is to help Ukraine weaken Russia to the point of negotiation.
“It goes without saying that inviting Putin to the December G20 Summit in Miami risks legitimizing his aggression.
“Peace cannot be achieved by pressuring a sovereign nation to surrender its future. Any agreement that sacrifices Ukraine’s territory, security, or fundamental rights would not deliver lasting peace but only invite further attacks. We must stand with Ukraine and pursue peace on Ukraine’s terms, not Vladimir Putin’s.”
Dr. Farkas previously served as deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia/Ukraine/Eurasia and was the senior advisor to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe and special advisor to the Secretary of Defense for the NATO Summit. View her full biography HERE.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
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