INDIANAPOLIS (Inside Indians Business): Governor Eric Holcomb has signed an executive order in the wake of what he calls Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “unprovoked invasion” of Ukraine. The order lists specific actions, including a review of all state contracts involving Russian-owned or Russian-affiliated companies.

Holcomb’s office says the order aims to show a commitment for the citizens of Ukraine and condemnation of the Russian government.

“I stand with the people of the Ukraine as they face the tyranny of Putin and his unprovoked invasion. We must hold Putin accountable for his actions and support Ukraine in any way we can. Indiana joins the world as we pray for the people of Ukraine,” Holcomb said. “As a state we will do our part to try to prevent further indiscriminate killing of Ukrainian civilian men, women and children. I encourage Indiana residents to support the humanitarian efforts for Ukraine through their local communities, religious organizations and non-profits and show our true Hoosier spirit.”

In addition to the review of state contracts, the order lists the following actions:

• The Indiana Public Retirement System will evaluate investments into the state retirement accounts that may involve the Russian ruble, Russian-owned and Russian-affiliated companies and immediately report its findings to the governor’s office.
• The Indiana Office of Technology will continue to strengthen our critical state infrastructure to protect the system from Russian cyber-attacks and the Governor encourages private businesses to do the same.
• The Commission for Higher Education will request that public colleges and universities report all Russian funding received for programs, research and grants and report its findings to the governor’s office.
• The Governor encourages Hoosier businesses and companies in Indiana to evaluate their future business relationship with Russia.
• The state of Indiana will standby to assist Ukrainian refugees should a federal policy, program or initiative be implemented requiring access to appropriate locations across the country.