Senators Wicker and Shaheen to introduce resolution urging US support for Russian pro‑democracy movement

Senators Roger Wicker, Republican of Mississippi, and Jeanne Shaheen, Democrat of New Hampshire, are set to introduce a bipartisan, non‑binding resolution on Wednesday that urges the State Department to expand cooperation with Russia’s pro‑democracy movement both within the country and abroad, according to a draft obtained by The Hill. The measure, timed to coincide with a major diplomatic gathering, calls for increased assistance to Russian civil‑society groups, the provision of secure communication tools, and the facilitation of information sharing aimed at countering Kremlin repression.

The resolution reflects a broader U.S. effort to support democratic actors in Russia amid heightened crackdowns on dissent and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the proposal does not carry legislative force, its sponsors hope it will shape State Department policy and signal congressional commitment to backing Russian opposition voices. The senators plan to seek co‑sponsors from both parties before the resolution is debated in the Senate.