Bilirakis Lauds Passage of Russian Sanctions and Aid to Ukraine

"Vladimir Putin likes to invoke the idea of the international law only when it suits him. His invasion of Ukraine, his annexation of Crimea, and his seizure of Ukrainian assets are a clear violation of Ukraine's sovereignty. The Cold War is over, and the former Soviet Union lost," Bilirakis said. "Despite Mr. Putin's best efforts to remake the Soviet Union, it will not work. The world has changed. The international community will not allow such a flagrant use of force to go unanswered. These sanctions from the United States and other countries, and Russia's removal from the G8 are a good first step to deter further lawless action from Russia. His decisions will only serve to further isolate Russia, causing irreparable damage to the Russian economy and world standing."

H.R. 4278 will sanction Russia and provide aid to Ukraine. The aid to Ukraine is paid for by a reduction in aid to Pakistan. Sanctions made by Executive Order are codified through this legislation, and it also calls on the President to sanction individuals who influence, formulate and implement Russian foreign policy through asset freezes and visa bans.