Rep. Byron Donalds discusses Ukrainian border at town hall in Naples

One of your representatives was back in Southwest Florida for an in-person town hall on Tuesday evening.

U.S. Representative Byron Donalds hosted a 6 p.m. town hall at Vineyards Community Park, located at 6231 Arbor Blvd. W. in Naples.

“This Town Hall serves as an opportunity for Southwest Florida residents receive a legislative update from their United States Representative,” his office said in a press release. “Town Hall attendees will learn ways in which key legislation on Capitol Hill will impact our Southwest Florida communities, share their concerns, and ask questions.”

With Russia’s military building at the Ukrainian border and the release of a new video showing military drills, some are worried about a possible invasion. Many had questions regarding how this would impact the U.S. during Donalds’ town hall.

Town halls are designed for lawmakers to listen to the concerns of their constituents.

And, for Rep. Donalds, the recurring question was what will happen if Russia invades Ukraine? Many Americans are noticing the escalating tensions between the two countries.

“What we don’t want to see is the Eastern block returning under frankly Russian control with Vladimir Putin at the helm,” said Rep. Donalds.

Thousands of U.S. troops are on alert and ready to deploy after diplomacy efforts with Moscow stalled. America is also sending military equipment.

However, some believe the move to mobilize should’ve begun sooner. Retired military officer Mark Steskal says he knows from experience that there’s no dealing when it comes to Russia. “When they feel that the leadership in the military is soft, they will take the opportunity to finish the job,” said Steskal.

When WINK News asked Rep. Donalds if this is the proper step for President Biden to take, he had this to say, “It should be a very stern one and, really frankly, one that is no-nonsense,” Rep. Donalds said.