John,

Our nation was forged by a people rising up to fight for freedom and the promise of democracy. We know the value of our freedom, and America must be a steadfast ally to those who are fighting for theirs now.

I strongly condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a peaceful, independent nation. This war is unwarranted and unjust, and it will cost untold innocent lives.

Russia’s leader is a tyrant who deserves the isolation his actions have brought.

Today I signed Executive Order 251, directing state government agencies and departments to review all existing contracts and operations and to terminate any agreements or operations that directly benefit Russian entities.

With the threat of cyber attacks on businesses and government agencies heightened, I met with my Joint Cybersecurity Task Force and instructed them to increase outreach and assistance across our state.

North Carolina stands with the Ukrainians who are so courageously defending their homeland, and we stand with the brave Russian citizens who are risking their own safety under an oppressive regime to protest the war crimes of their own government.

May God bless all those in harm’s way,

Roy Cooper