Russia’s annexation of four parts of Ukraine dominated headlines this week as the West denounced the move as illegal under international law.
The Biden administration announced sanctions on hundreds of Russian officials on Friday in retaliation. One day earlier, Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced a bill that would deny economic and military aid to countries that recognize the land as Russian territory.
“It is a land grab. It’s a steal. And it is another craven, brazen tactic by Vladimir Putin to test the West’s support for Ukraine, and we are having none of it, nor should any other nation,” Blumenthal said at a Thursday press conference.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to Russia’s annexation by submitting an application for “accelerated accession” to NATO, the Cold War-era defensive alliance that Ukraine has for years sought to join.
PELOSI SAYS SHE BACKS ‘SECURITY GUARANTEE’ FOR UKRAINE
Asked about Zelensky’s request on Friday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said she supported a “security guarantee” for Ukraine but wanted to see Ukraine win its monthslong war with Russia first. Pelosi stopped short of saying she supported NATO membership for Ukraine.
Also this week, Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS), chairman of the Jan. 6 committee, said he expects an interim report on the panel’s findings as well as a rescheduled hearing, all before November’s midterm elections.
Friday marked the final legislative day of Congress before a recess that stretches past the elections. After passing a continuing resolution to keep the government funded until Dec. 16, Capitol Hill is expected to be mostly quiet as lawmakers spend the coming weeks campaigning in their home states.
Here’s a look at scenes from the Capitol the week of Sept. 26, captured by Washington Examiner photographer Graeme Jennings.
Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announce a bill confronting Russia’s partial annexation of Ukraine
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) says she would support a “security guarantee” for Ukraine
Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) indicates the Jan. 6 committee will issue an interim report before the midterm elections
House Republicans tout their “Commitment to America” governing agenda
Democrats call for “swift” rollout of President Joe Biden’s student debt relief plan
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Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) speaks to reporters outside the Capitol
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) takes a selfie outside the Capitol
