Standing with Ukraine

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Vladimir Putin is a thug and there must be decisive consequences for his lawless invasion of Ukraine. The United States and our allies must present a posture of strength against Russia’s unprovoked aggression. I was in Brussels this week and had an opportunity to discuss imposing maximum and far-reaching sanctions that will cripple Russia’s economy and stifle access to international financial markets. While the initial tranche of sanctions were a step in the right direction, these sanctions are only a half measure and came at too late a juncture. Adversaries like China are watching closely. If we don’t properly deter dangerous actions now by imposing crippling sanctions, we are emboldening adversaries and creating a more dangerous world.

This week, I cosponsored H.R.6742, the NYET Act, which would impose strong sanctions on Russian banks, businesses, Putin's enablers, and would take steps to permanently end the construction of Nord Stream 2. The bill also provides additional support for Ukraine and creates a new Ukraine Resistance Fund to help prevent Russia's attempt to occupy Ukraine. The NYET Act also reassures NATO's eastern flank.

In January, I cosponsored H.R.6367, Guaranteeing Ukrainian Autonomy by Reinforcing its Defense (GUARD) Act. H.R.6367 would substantially and immediately increase material support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, strengthen sanctions of Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline, and establish diplomatic and military deterrents to counter Russia's aggression.

In addition to levying tough sanctions, it is a matter of national security for President Biden to reverse his misguided policies and allow America to pursue energy independence once again. Since burdensome regulations have put a stranglehold on domestic energy production, we have relied more and more on Russia and other foreign sources to fill our energy needs. In September, I took to the House floor to warn of the consequences of ceding energy reliance to adversaries like Russia and allowing them to be our second largest oil importer. I have cosponsored H.R.6235, Strategic Production Response Act which would lower gas prices, protect the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), and strengthen our nation’s energy security by opening up domestic production rather than relying on Russia.

In this dark hour, please join me in prayer for the people of Ukraine and their safety.