General Cavoli addresses legitimacy of Russian-organized referendums in Ukraine

The U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services convened on April 3, 2025, to receive testimony regarding the posture of the United States European Command (EUCOM) and United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) in relation to the Defense Authorization Request for Fiscal Year 2026. A significant focus of the meeting was the geopolitical implications of recent events in Eastern Europe, particularly concerning Russia's actions in Ukraine.

General Christopher Cavoli, the commander of EUCOM, addressed concerns about the legitimacy of the Russian-organized referendums held in 2022 in the provinces of Lugansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. He emphasized that these referendums were widely condemned by international bodies, including the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which deemed them illegal and illegitimate. General Cavoli noted that the only country to accept the results, aside from Russia, was North Korea, highlighting the global consensus on the matter.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of these referendums for U.S. foreign policy and negotiations regarding peace in the region. General Cavoli pointed out that the referendums were conducted under the auspices of an occupying power during an ongoing conflict, which undermined their validity. He suggested that any analysis of these events should consider the historical context and the intent of the Russian Federation to absorb these territories.

Additionally, the conversation included remarks on the presence of Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine and other countries, clarifying that language alone does not indicate loyalty to a nation. General Cavoli compared this to linguistic minorities in various nations, asserting that speaking a particular language does not equate to political allegiance.

The meeting underscored the complexities of U.S. military strategy in Europe and Africa, as well as the ongoing challenges posed by foreign adversaries. The committee's discussions will inform future defense strategies and resource allocations as the U.S. navigates its role in global security.