U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement on the Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus Act, which would revoke Russia’s permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status and inflict Russia with additional sanctions. The legislation, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives this afternoon, would hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked and heinous war on Ukraine and punish Belarus for its involvement.

“Yesterday President Zelensky called on Congress to inflict additional sanctions on Russia – and we must deliver. As Putin wages war on civilians, the United States cannot do business as usual with Russia. Cutting off Russia’s business with the West and revoking its trade status will help to hold this regime accountable,” said Congresswoman Walorski. “Putin is a war criminal, and Americans shouldn’t be padding his pockets or bankrolling his war. Now more than ever, America must secure our supply chains for energy and other vital industries by moving production home and far away from our adversaries.”

Congresswoman Walorski has strongly condemned Putin’s actions, and she has supported crippling sanctions for Russia. Last week, Congresswoman Walorski joined House Ways and Means Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-Texas) and fellow committee Republicans in introducing similar legislation, H.R. 7014, that 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.