WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Rep. Ed Royce, the Committee’s Chairman, today announced that they have introduced legislation in the House condemning Russia’s recent aggression toward Ukrainian vessels attempting to pass through the Kerch Strait. The measure (H.Res.1162) renews calls for Russia to end hostilities that violate Ukraine’s sovereignty, reaffirms the House’s commitment to Ukraine’s independence and security, and urges the President to hold Russia accountable for its aggressive behavior.

“President Putin has grown more brazen in his aggression toward Ukraine, and this latest attack on Ukrainian sovereignty must be met with condemnation and consequences. I’m glad to join with Chairman Royce in reaffirming the House’s rejection of Russian aggression, and I’ll continue working to make President Putin pay a price for his ongoing violations of international law,” said Rep. Engel.

“Russia’s firing on and seizure of Ukrainian ships is the latest in a string of provocative acts. Putin’s aggression is escalating. The United States, working with our international partners, must continue to stand against this dangerous and destabilizing behavior, which is why Ranking Member Engel and I introduced this resolution today. Putin must be held to account,” said Rep. Royce.

Background:

Earlier this week, Russian forces fired upon and rammed Ukrainian vessels attempting to pass through the Kerch Strait and seized the Ukrainian vessels and their crews. This is the latest in a years-long series of Russian violations of international norms and laws, including the illegal occupation of Crimea and ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine.

Text of the resolution can be found here.

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