On September 23, 2025, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Illinois Division, organized a meeting between Senator Durbin and community leaders, followed by a press conference attended by NBC Chicago, Fox 32 Chicago, and ABC 7 Chicago.
A wide range of issues was discussed — from NATO border violations and Congress's failure to pass sanctions against Russia, to the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees in the United States. Senator Durbin listened to the community on three key topics:
the impact of Russia's war against Ukraine on Ukrainian Americans; the challenges and priorities of the Ukrainian-American community in Illinois; issues of immigration, resettlement, and community support initiatives.
Also present at the meeting was Frank Spula, President of the Polish National Alliance. The central message was that unity is the path forward, and that more decisive action is needed at all levels — from individual efforts to legislation and strengthened NATO support — to counter Russian aggression. The possibility of assistance in extending visas and work permits for refugees was also discussed — an issue of particular urgency at this time. Although Senator Durbin will not be running for re-election in 2026, he shared advice on how the community can ensure continued support for Ukraine at the local and national levels. Senator Durbin also received gifts from the community: Howard Buffett's photo book "Courage of the Nation" and socks featuring the American and Ukrainian flags.