Trump chides Dems as they remain seated while murdered refugee Iryna Zarutska’s mom breaks down
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump rebuked Democrats who stayed seated during his State of the Union address as he honored the grieving mother of a slain Ukrainian refugee.
The President paused to recognize Anna Zarutska, whose 22-year-old daughter, Iryna Zarutska, was fatally stabbed aboard a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina, last August. Iryna had fled the war in Ukraine, only to meet a violent end in the United States.
Trump slams Dems for ignoring a heartbroken mother
As Trump detailed the attack, Anna Zarutska broke down in tears.
“[Iryna’s killer] stood up and viciously slashed a knife through her neck and body. No one will ever forget the people on that train. No one will ever forget the expression of terror on Iryna’s face as she looked up at her attacker in the last seconds of her life. She died instantly,” Trump said.
“She had escaped a brutal war only to be slain by a hardened criminal, set free to kill in America,” he added.
Anna Zarutska dabbed at her eyes as the applause swelled.
“Mrs. Zarutska, tonight I promise you that we will ensure justice for your magnificent daughter, Iryna,” the President said, drawing an ovation from Republicans.
NOW - Democrats refuse to stand for Anna Zarutska, the mother of Iryna Zarutska. pic.twitter.com/rB2atshSk1
— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) February 25, 2026
Seated beside Anna was Erika Kirk, the widow of slain Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who appeared to offer her support to the heartbroken mother. A man at Anna’s side handed her a handkerchief as she wept.
But as Republicans rose to their feet, Democrats largely remained seated.
“How do you not stand?” Trump remarked, gesturing in their direction.
Repeat offender's violence and its aftermath
Iryna Zarutska, 22, was riding a light rail train in Charlotte in August when prosecutors say 34-year-old career criminal Decarlos Brown attacked her without warning.
According to authorities, Brown stabbed Iryna three times (at least once in the neck) in a brazen assault captured on surveillance video. After the attack, she collapsed in her seat as blood pooled onto the train floor. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Democrats just REFUSED to stand to honor Iryna Zarutska..
— American AF 🇺🇸 (@iAnonPatriot) February 25, 2026
Absolute POS’s. pic.twitter.com/ysjEW8sdvv
Brown had been arrested at least 14 times in North Carolina dating back to 2007. His record included charges ranging from assault and firearms possession to felony robbery and larceny. At the time of the attack, he was reportedly out on no-cash bail.
When police arrested him, Brown made a bizarre claim that a material had been placed inside his body without his 'permission or authorization,' and that it controlled his actions.
However, Brown was ultimately charged with violence against a railroad carrier and the mass transportation system, resulting in death. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.
In October, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein ratified 'Iryna’s Law,' which included an amendment that could allow the state to resume capital punishment.
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