Rep. Meeks Statement on Trump Refusing to Impose Bipartisan Sanctions on Russia

Rep. Meeks Statement on Trump Refusing to Impose Bipartisan Sanctions on Russia

Washington, D.C.—Ranking Democrat on the Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats Subcommittee, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, released the following statement on Trump Refusing to Impose Bipartisan Sanctions on Russia:

"In a bipartisan fashion, this Congress passed a bill that called for additional sanctions on Russia, Iran, and North Korea in a single piece of law that President Trump ultimately signed. In fact, it was the first major piece of legislation Congress passed early in the Trump administration. This overwhelmingly bi-partisan effort was Congress' way of pressing the President to hold the Kremlin accountable in light of its interference in the United States' 2016 election and continued provocation on Ukrainian sovereign territory.

"These well-designed sanctions punish companies and individuals responsible for Russia's belligerent behavior without ensnaring the Russian people. That the Trump Administration continues to drag its feet on upholding sanctions is worrisome. It's particularly unnerving given the ongoing investigation into his administration and his campaign's possible collusion with the anti-American Kremlin attacks.

"I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to promote a measured policy to improve U.S. – Russian relations, while holding accountable those who attacked the very foundation of our democracy: our free and fair elections."