Senator Bob Corker on Wednesday introduced legislation with 20 Senate Republicans providing a strategic U.S. response to deter Russian aggression in Europe, which threatens regional security and prosperity that is critical for maintaining economic growth in the United States.
“Rather than react to events as they unfold, which has been the policy of this administration, we need to inflict more direct consequences on Russia prior to Vladimir Putin taking additional steps that will be very difficult to undo,” said Senator Corker. “Our legislation takes a three-prong approach to prevent the situation from becoming far worse. This bill will strengthen NATO, impose tough sanctions to deter Russia and support non-NATO allies of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia.”
The Russian Aggression Prevention Act of 2014 is cosponsored by Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Marco Rubio (R-Fl.), John McCain (R-Az.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Mark Kirk (R-Il.), John Barrasso (R-Wy.), Jim Risch (R-Id.), Dan Coats (R-In.), Pat Roberts (R-Ks.), Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), Jim Inhofe (R-Ok.), Rob Portman (R-Oh.), Orrin Hatch (R-Ut.), John Thune (R-.S.D.) and Jeff Flake (R-Az.).
Senator Lamar Alexander released the following statement on his decision to cosponsor the legislation:
“It’s important that the United States and its allies provide a measured and effective response to unprovoked acts of aggression.”
Senator Corker’s legislation would authorize the president to provide Ukraine up to $100 million in direct military assistance, such as anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons and other small arms. It would also place additional economic sanctions on Russian officials and financial institutions, expand existing sanctions and set up future sanctions in the event that Russia interferes further in Ukraine.
For a copy of the legislative text, click here.
For a section-by-section bill summary, click here.
For a one-page background of the bill, click here.