US House passes bill supporting Ukraine, demanding cease-fire

WASHINGTON

The US House of Representatives passed a bipartisan resolution Wednesday expressing support for Ukraine and calling for cease-fire amid Russia's war.

The bill cleared the floor with a 426-3 vote. Three Republican Representatives -- Paul Gosar of Arizona, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Matt Rosendale of Montana -- were the only votes in opposition.

The non-binding resolution also calls for the full withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory as well as backing the continued use of sanctions.

It also "stands steadfastly, staunchly, proudly, and fervently behind the Ukrainian people in their fight against" the Putin administration.

More than 2,000 civilians have been killed since Russia launched its war on Ukraine on Feb. 24, according to Ukrainian authorities, while the UN Refugee Agency estimates that more than 874,000 people have fled Ukraine to neighboring countries.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, 498 Russian soldiers have been killed and 1,597 wounded in the fighting.

More than 2,870 Ukrainian soldiers and “nationalists” have also been killed, the ministry said Wednesday.