Interview with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," April 20, 2025

The event features Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania discussing crucial international matters on CBS.

Congressman Fitzpatrick's Insights on Ukraine Conflict

WEIJIA JIANG: Over the weekend, a significant exchange of prisoners occurred between Russia and Ukraine, marking the largest since the invasion began over three years ago. Despite this development, accusations of ceasefire violations continue to arise from both Moscow and Kyiv. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who recently returned from Ukraine's frontline, joins us from Langhorne, Pennsylvania. Welcome, Congressman.

REP. BRIAN FITZPATRICK: Good day, Weijia. Happy Easter to you.

WEIJIA JIANG: Thank you, Congressman. After your recent Ukraine visit and discussions with President Zelenskyy, did you address the U.S.-brokered peace plan's current standing?

REP. FITZPATRICK: Yes, indeed. President Zelenskyy and I engaged in extensive dialogue about numerous issues. I consider him not only a leader of note but a friend. A key topic was the Memorandum of Understanding he signed, addressing mineral agreements, which has been a subject of negotiation. Historical precedents, like the Budapest Memorandum, highlight his valid concerns over security assurances unfulfilled by Russia following Ukraine's disarmament in 1994.

Upcoming Agreements and Approval Processes

WEIJIA JIANG: Does this mean we might expect the deal's signing soon, as indicated in the Oval Office?

REP. FITZPATRICK: Such timelines depend on the agreement's substance. President Zelensky outlined how agreements signed by his ministers might proceed without parliamentary or congressional consultation, depending on specific language and figures that could convert them into treaties requiring further approval.

WEIJIA JIANG: With your mentioned frustrations, especially regarding the failed Easter truce, is achieving even a brief pause in hostilities feasible?

REP. FITZPATRICK: The resolution largely rests with Putin, whose habitual unreliability is known. Russia, despite its vast landmass, reflects economic fragility. As a state, it's underperforming in its military endeavors against Ukraine. It's vital not to underestimate such bluster; we should bolster Ukraine's defense robustly.

The Dynamic of Negotiations

WEIJIA JIANG: Both President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio highlighted an urgent need to seize a viable peace deal soon or abandon efforts. In light of recent remarks by President Trump, what's your perspective on necessary actions from both Russia and Ukraine?

REP. FITZPATRICK: This demand for genuine eagerness to conclude the conflict should target Russia primarily. Ukrainians, guided by an elective government, inherently pursue peace and did not instigate this aggression. Putin's aspirations to reintegrate former Soviet territories underscore his motives, making Ukraine's resistance pivotal.

WEIJIA JIANG: With the negotiations being at such a critical juncture, and ambivalence in continued support voiced by the Administration, will Congress step forward with renewed support?

REP. FITZPATRICK: While not overstepping the Administration or Speaker's positions, rest assured that fostering Ukrainian victory and facilitating peace remain priorities. Historical House floor votes on Ukraine underscore consistent bipartisan support.

WEIJIA JIANG: Thank you, Congressman Fitzpatrick, for your valuable insights today.