Alexander Vindman Blasts ‘Reprehensible’ Attacks on Impeachment Witnesses

Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman took the opportunity to criticize those who have attacked him and other witnesses during his opening statement in Tuesday’s public impeachment hearings. The National Security Council official defended his colleagues who have been the subject of public criticism.

Vindman’s statement as read was slightly different from the version written released before the hearing. The language appears to have been toned down.

“It is improper for the President of the United States to demand a foreign government investigate a U.S. citizen and political opponent,” Vindman said.

“It was also clear that if Ukraine pursued an investigation into the 2016 election, the Bidens, and Burisma, it would be interpreted as a partisan play. This would undoubtedly result in Ukraine losing bipartisan support, undermine U.S. national security, and advance Russia’s strategic objectives in the region.”

He went on to discuss attacks on other witnesses. He has been the subject of attacks by President Donald Trump’s supporters.

“I want to take a moment to recognize the courage of my colleagues who have appeared and are scheduled to appear before this Committee,” Vindman said.

“I want to state that the character attacks on these distinguished and honorable public servants is reprehensible. It is natural to disagree and engage in spirited debate, this has been our custom since the time of our Founding Fathers, but we are better than personal attacks.”

Watch the video above, via CNN.