Russia is becoming a pariah state in its trade relations with the United States. As an answer battle The US Congress, initiated by the Kremlin in Ukraine, this Thursday approved two legislative proposals that end “permanent normal trade relations” between the US and Russia (as well as Belarus) and open the door to new developments. duty and veto energy imports from Russia. Now, President Joe Biden, who supports and demands the law, has to sign both regulations.
hour Senate The two laws received unanimous support. Only a handful of Republicans voted for the amended proposals in the House, which had passed slightly different versions of the rules last month. Specifically, three in the proposed law on trade and tariffs and nine in the veto did so. Energy.
step taken by Washington It was already expected in March when the US and the G-7 urged Moscow to coordinately withdraw its trade interests as a “most preferred country” in the World Trade Organization (WTO). But this measure needed action from national legislatures, and it arrived in the US this Thursday.
Congress’s passage will become law after it’s signed by Biden. executive order He said the president had issued a limit to Russian oil, gas and coal imports.
limited hit
despite economic blow Given that Russia is only the US’s 23rd largest trading partner according to census data, the symbolic effect is significant and demonstrates the US’ determination to punish and isolate Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. In addition, and in principle for Russia, such as tariffs on basic products fertilizers or uranium will be unaffected, with Biden having the authority once he signs up to upgrade them.