Press Releases

Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement marking the first anniversary of Russia’s unconscionable war on Ukraine:

“In the year since Putin’s authoritarian regime invaded Ukraine, unthinkable violence and devastating loss have followed. The Kremlin’s unprovoked action remains a horrific stain on humanity. But these senseless attacks were also met with great unity and hope. The Ukrainian people showed the world their resilience and the resilience of democracy.

“Under President Biden’s dutiful leadership, the United States rallied the world to support Ukraine. For our part, Ways and Means Democrats acted decisively to isolate Putin and inflict economic pain on Russia and Belarus by banning energy imports and suspending normal trade relations. These congressional actions were essential pieces of our efforts to save lives, restore peace, and defend our values.

“Now, we stand firmer than ever in our unity against hate. Our allies agreed: bad actors will be punished and the support for Ukraine hasn’t wavered. From seeking suspension of Russia from the World Trade Organization to today’s actions from the Biden Administration, we’ve acted in concert to hold Putin accountable and deepen the economic consequences. We have a responsibility to ensure this commitment endures, and that freedom rises above all.”

The Ways and Means Committee proudly led congressional efforts to ban energy imports from Russia and suspend normal trade relations with Russia and Belarus in March 2022.