Hoyer: Sanctions Send Clear Message Russia Will Face Consequences Unless It Ends Interference in Ukraine

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after President Obama announced new sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin:

"In announcing expanded sanctions today against Russian President Vladimir Putin and his chief backers - Russia's largest banks, a major defense contractor, and the country's oil industry - the Administration is sending a clear message that Russia will continue to face consequences unless it ceases its interference in Ukraine's sovereign affairs and works with the international community to promote an end to the bloodshed.  Russia's continued arming of separatists in Eastern Ukraine, even after the horrific destruction of a civilian airliner with nearly 300 souls aboard with a Russian-supplied surface-to-air missile, flies in the face of international law and prospects for peaceful regional cooperation.  We know that the sanctions we and our European allies have imposed are having an impact on Russia's economy, and I will continue to support sanctions that provide a clear choice to President Putin between further isolation or constructive re-engagement."