BATON ROUGE - Governor John Bel Edwards issued a statement Thursday explaining that Vice President Kamala Harris's trip to Louisiana was postponed because of the developing situation in Ukraine.

Vice President Harris was scheduled to travel to Sunset, Louisiana, on Friday with Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to discuss the administration's efforts to expand broadband internet access.

Gov. Edwards's statement reads:

“The Vice President has delayed her trip to Louisiana, which is a wise and understandable decision given the state of affairs with Ukraine. I am praying for the President and the Vice President and their advisors and our military leaders at this time, that they may act with strength and resolve in response to this escalating conflict. I look forward to welcoming her to our great state at a more appropriate time.

“I am holding the people of Ukraine in my prayers and in my heart, as their safety and sovereignty is threatened. The Ukrainians deserve to know peace and I hope all Louisianans will join me in praying that this peace comes swiftly.

“No one knows precisely what the coming weeks and months will bring, but I am also praying for the members of our American military and their families, who always stand ready to defend freedom alongside our allies.”