Ayotte Readies Bill Imposing Tough New Sanctions on Russia

Statement

U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) announced today that she is crafting legislation that would impose tough new sanctions on Russia. With Russia having illegally annexed Crimea last month and with tens of thousands of Russian troops assembled near the Ukrainian border, Ayotte says significant additional sanctions are needed to deter further aggression from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ayotte's bill would prohibit U.S. banks from transacting with sanctioned Russian banks. Additionally, the bill would bar new investments by U.S. citizens in the Russian Federation, including commitments of funds or other assets, loans or any other extensions of credit. These sanctions would remain in place until Russia has withdrawn its armed forces from Crimea. Russia would be subject to additional severe economic sanctions - such as on Russia's energy sector-should Putin make any further aggressive actions against or intrusions into Ukrainian territory.

"Sanctions with teeth will send a clear message to Putin that his illegal annexation of Crimea won't go unpunished. While I appreciate the initial steps the President took, it's clear additional sanctions are needed - especially as Putin continues amassing Russian troops on Ukraine's border. The legislation I'm crafting would impose immediate additional sanctions on the Russian economy, with even harsher sanctions should Putin take further aggressive actions against Ukraine. We must inflict major economic costs on Russia to deter Putin's aggression, and my legislation will do just that," said Senator Ayotte.

Ayotte's bill also contains provisions to provide the Ukrainian military with certain materials, including: medical supplies, clothing and individual equipment, Meals Ready to Eat, communications equipment, mine detection equipment, water containers and purification stations, certain small arms, and generators.

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