Hoyer Statement on Senate Passage of Russia, Iran and North Korea Sanctions Legisation

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the Senate overwhelmingly passed Russia, Iran, and North Korea sanctions legisation by a vote of 98-2:

"Tonight, the Senate overwhelmingly approved, by a vote of 98-2, the House's bill to expand sanctions against Russia for its interference in our election, its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, and its illegal occupation of Crimea. The bill also works to deter Iran and North Korea from developing ballistic missile delivery systems. Our bill makes it clear that Congress must give its consent to any changes in Russian sanctions in order to prevent them from being removed prematurely and ensures both the Majority and Minority can exercise this oversight role.

"Now it is up to President Trump to sign this sanctions bill, which passed both the House and Senate with veto-proof majorities, into law. If he fails to do so, he will have to explain to the American people why he has chosen to empower Vladimir Putin's Russia over the security of this country and our allies. I urge him to make the right decision and sign this bill without delay."

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