READ: Morrison’s opening statement in impeachment hearing

Tim Morrison, an outgoing top Russia expert on the White House National Security Council (NSC), testified before the House Intelligence Committee on Tuesday as part of the impeachment inquiry into President Trump. 

Morrison delivered a brief opening statement in which he told lawmakers he would not question the character or integrity of his former colleagues on the NSC, even as the White House and its allies used his comments against Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman earlier in the day.

He also urged Congress not to allow impeachment proceedings to overshadow the conflict playing out in Ukraine, which he warned could embolden Russia.

“Every day that the focus of discussion involving Ukraine is centered on these proceedings instead of those matters is a day when we are not focused on the interests Ukraine, the United States and Western-style liberalism share,” he said.

Read Morrison’s full opening statement below:

Tim Morrison Opening Statement Nov 19 by M Mali on Scribd