U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement on suspending normal trade relations with Russia as a consequence of Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked and heinous war on the sovereign nation of Ukraine.

“As Putin wages war on the innocent people of Ukraine, the United States cannot do business as normal with Russia. It’s past time to cut off Russia’s permanent normal trade relations and hold this regime accountable for its heinous and deadly invasion. Retaining Russia’s ‘most favored nation’ status would be a direct insult to the freedom-loving people of Ukraine as they defend their nation against tyrants,” said Congresswoman Walorski. “Inflicting Russia with stronger sanctions and cutting off its business with the West are vital steps we must take as America stands with Ukraine. Now more than ever, America must secure our supply chains for energy resources and other vital products by moving production home and taking adversaries out of the equation.”

On Wednesday, Congresswoman Walorski joined House Ways and Means Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-Texas) and fellow committee Republicans in introducing the Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus Act, which would send a stronger and more effective response to Russian aggression than President Joe Biden’s plan. This legislation would:

  • Stop Russia from selling goods in the United States at the same preferential duty rates that the country it is invading—Ukraine—enjoys.
  • Grant new authority to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to increase tariffs on products from Russia and Belarus.
  • Block all imports from Russia of oil, gas, coal, and other energy products with no exceptions other than a 45-day transition period.
  • Allow removal of the import ban only if the President certifies to Congress that Russia has ceased all acts of aggression, is no longer threatening any NATO allies or partners, and recognizes Ukraine’s freedom and independence.
  • Call on our trading partners to take similar actions to hold both Russia and Belarus accountable with the moral authority of having taken these actions ourselves.

Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Ranking Member of the House Ethics Committee.