He calls on Congress to pass a Ukraine aid bill.
The United States is imposing more than 500 new sanctions on Russia over its ongoing war of conquest against Ukraine and the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
This was stated in a statement by US President Joe Biden ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine. The United States is also introducing new export restrictions on almost 100 organizations for providing covert support to the Russian military machine.
“These sanctions will target individuals linked to Navalny’s imprisonment, as well as Russia’s financial sector, defense industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders on multiple continents. They will allow Putin to pay an even higher price for his aggression abroad and repression at home,” Biden said.
He noted that Washington is taking measures to further reduce Russia’s income from the sale of energy resources. He also tasked his team with strengthening support for civil society, independent media and those fighting for democracy around the world.
In addition, Biden recalled the shortage of ammunition in the Ukrainian army, while Russia receives weapons and ammunition from Iran and North Korea. He again called on the House of Representatives to pass a bipartisan bill on additional national security measures “before it is too late.”
“This bill provides emergency funding for Ukraine. It also invests in America’s own defense industrial base. It passed the Senate overwhelmingly, and there is no doubt that if the Speaker calls a vote, it will quickly pass the House of Representatives.” he added.
The American leader emphasizes that opposition to this bill only plays into Putin’s hands. “History is watching. Failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten. Now is the time for us to stand firmly behind Ukraine and stand united with our allies and partners. Now is the time to prove that the United States stands for freedom and bows to no one.” , Biden said.
Sanctions due to Navalny’s death: what is known
As you know, during a meeting with Putin in Geneva in 2021, Biden promised the Russian dictator “devastating” consequences if the Russian opposition leader died in prison.
On February 16, the Federal Penitentiary Service announced Navalny’s death in the Polar Wolf correctional colony. According to the service, he suddenly became ill after a walk.
