Congressman Cohen Urges President Biden to Help “Stick it to Putin at the Pump”
In letter to Administration, calls for ban on oil and gas purchases from Russia
MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Co-Chairman of the Helsinki Commission, today wrote to President Biden asking for an immediate cessation of American purchases of oil and gas from Russia. Congressman Cohen acknowledged the likely impact on domestic fuel prices but said patriotic Americans will understand the need to show support for Ukraine and the rule of law. If banned, Congressman Cohen said, Americans filling their cars at the gas station can "Stick it to Putin at the Pump."
The letter to the Biden Administration reads in part:
"I write to ask that you immediately ban the U.S. purchase of Russian oil and gas and encourage European allies to do the same. I also urge you to continue sanctioning Russian oligarchs including Roman Abramovich. I have enclosed an additional list of names suggested by Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation.
"As you know, oil and gas revenue compose about half of Russia's budget and is crucial to financing Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine. American dollars should not be used to support this illegal war.
"While cutting off Russian oil and gas will likely cause gas prices to increase, Americans should be reminded that this is the price of democracy, freedom and doing what's right. Whenever Americans are filling up their tanks, they should think that these higher prices are a way to ‘Stick it to Putin at the Pump.' The Administration can explain higher prices…showing Putin that America will always fight for democracy, no matter how expensive. Americans have shown great compassion for Ukraine and I believe will, with your leadership, see this as a way to do their part to stop Putin."
See the entire letter here.
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