WASHINGTON – The US House of Representatives has voted 419-three for increased sanctions on Russia, North Korea and Iran, at the same time ensuring that it would need Congressional approval to lift sanctions – a move analysts see as aimed at curtailing President Donald Trump…
WASHINGTON – The US House of Representatives has voted 419-three for increased sanctions on Russia, North Korea and Iran, at the same time ensuring that it would need Congressional approval to lift sanctions – a move analysts see as aimed at curtailing President Donald Trump’s power to lift sanctions on Russia.
Ahead of the vote, Republican Representative Adam Kinzinger said Congress was „uncomfortable with any rapprochement with Moscow without getting some things for it“.
„We’re sending a message to Moscow, “ he said. „But if the President had any intention of trying to give Vladimir Putin what he wants on certain areas, I think he’ll think twice about it.“
A similar bill was earlier approved in the Senate, but the House version must go back to the Senate, where it is expected to be approved before the legislature breaks for the summer in a few weeks.
Some analysts say requiring Congressional approval to lift sanctions limits Mr Trump’s latitude – but the State Department is in favour of latitude to enable constructive dialogue rather than be stuck with a rigid sanctions regime.
In this case, the Russian cloud over the President appears to have influenced Congress.
„The bill we just passed with overwhelming bipartisan support is one of the most expansive sanctions packages in history, “ House Speaker Paul Ryan said in a statement.
