Rep. Jim Costa (center) meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Photo via Costa's office

Rep. Jim Costa of Fresno, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was awarded the Honorary Diploma of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, one of the highest distinguished awards by the Ukrainian Parliament.

The accolade recognizes Costa’s support for Ukraine and his commitment to defending democracy, according to a news release from Costa’s office.

The honorary diploma was presented to Costa during a visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian leaders and members of the Ukrainian Parliament.

“I am honored to receive this accolade and will continue to work with Ukraine to help it defend itself and preserve its sovereignty. The United States and Ukraine share a commitment to democracy and security. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and standing with the resilient Ukrainian people,” said Costa.

Costa’s visit to Ukraine was marked by productive dialogues on critical issues, including security cooperation, economic development and humanitarian aid, according to the release. Costa was joined by Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Don Bacon (NE-02).

 

During Costa’s meeting with the president, Zelenskyy spoke in detail about the situation on the front and the priority needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Costa responded by indicating the importance of maintaining solidarity with the Ukrainian people and European allies.

 

Members traveled through Konovaltsia and Kokorudza streets in Lviv, Ukraine, where a Russian missile killed seven people, including three children on Sept. 4. One of the buildings damaged in the Russian attack was the Lviv Oblast Centre for Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation on Konovaltsia Street, a 130-year-old architectural monument.

Zelenskyy reaffirmed to the members that he will present Ukraine’s victory plan to U.S. President Biden, Congress, and both U.S. presidential candidates soon.