Cramer Votes for Ukraine Aid and Russian Sanctions

Press Release

Today Congressman Kevin Cramer voted to codify and authorize sanctions against Russia and provide aid to Ukraine. The bipartisan Ukraine Support Act passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 399 to 19.

The legislation codifies existing sanctions issued as Executive Orders, and authorizes new ones against anyone who has engaged in significant acts of corruption, including misappropriation of Ukrainian assets, or has provided material support to anyone involved in such activity. To support democracy, economic growth, and free elections in Ukraine, it appropriates $50 million in already-authorized fiscal year 2014 spending.

"This is an important step in countering Russia's aggression and promoting a free and democratic Ukraine. Sanctions are an important tool, but in the long term, the best thing the United States can do to minimize Vladimir Putin's influence in the region is to replace him as the leading supplier of fossil fuel energy in Europe. States like North Dakota can help ensure the United States and our allies do not have to rely on unstable and hostile countries for energy. It is encouraging the White House came out this week in support of new efforts to export liquefied natural gas to Europe, but we will need to see action to back up their words," said Cramer.

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