Representative Tom Emmer (R-MN-06) called for increased energy independence from the United States amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Since Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to attack the neighboring country, the U.S. and other European allies have issued direct sanctions on the Russian economy and removed some banks from a crucial financial messaging service that connects banks and other institutions around the world.
However, many critics of the Biden administration have pointed out that, while the sanctions will hurt, the U.S. still imports thousands of barrels of Russian oil per day. Therefore, millions in oil profits are still pouring into the country, potentially financing the attack.
After being sworn in, President Biden stopped the construction of the Keystone pipeline and blocked new oil and gas leases.
“President Biden’s decision to release 30 million barrels of oil from U.S. strategic reserves is a 1.5-day solution to a long-term problem of his own making. We must restore American energy independence,” tweeted the Minnesota congressman.
President Biden’s decision to release 30 million barrels of oil from U.S. strategic reserves is a 1.5 day solution to a long-term problem of his own making.
We must restore American energy independence.
— Tom Emmer (@GOPMajorityWhip) March 1, 2022
Like other elected leaders, Emmer denounced the war effort and called for uniform opposition to Putin.
Furthermore, Ukrainian forces have stood firm against most Russian attacks, proving to be more resilient than initially expected by many intelligence agencies. The U.S. and many European countries have provided military supplies to the country.
“Vladimir Putin’s unwarranted invasion of Ukraine is a result of weak leadership on the world stage. Our hearts go out to the Ukrainian people and their families as they bear the brunt of these unlawful actions, and our response to these aggressions must be done in a swift and unwavering manner that holds Russia – and any other nation seeking to violate international law – to account, while restoring American energy and economic dominance here at home,” he added in a statement.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Minnesota Sun and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
