This bill prohibits using federal funds to support or facilitate (1) Russia's participation in a Group of Seven (G-7) proceeding, or (2) a reconstituted Group of Eight (G-8) that includes Russia. (The G-7 is an informal group consisting of seven of the world's largest advanced economies. In 2014, the G-8 became the G-7 when Russia 's membership was suspended following Russia's annexation of the Crimea region of Ukraine.)
Impact
The bill represents a significant commitment by the United States to isolate Russia in the international economic community, particularly by curtailing any potential for its return to the G7. The passage of this legislation would solidify a long-standing foreign policy stance that views Russian participation in such discussions as detrimental, reflecting an ongoing response to geopolitical tensions. If enacted, it would signal a strong rejection of support for Russia's actions on the world stage.
Summary
House Bill 295 aims to prohibit the use of Federal funds to support or facilitate the participation of the Russian Federation in the Group of Seven (G7) proceedings. Following Russia's suspension from the G8 in 2014, in response to its actions in Crimea, this bill reinforces the U.S. policy against Russian involvement in major global economic discussions. Proponents argue that this legislation is a necessary measure to maintain the integrity of the G7 and reject any normalization of relations with Russia under such significant frameworks.
Contention
While the bill is largely expected to garner support from legislators concerned about Russian aggression, it may also face scrutiny from members who advocate for diplomatic engagement with Russia. Concerns could arise regarding the potential implications for broader international relations, as some lawmakers might argue that excluding Russia could hinder opportunities for dialogue. The lack of federal funds for engagement might limit the U.S. ability to leverage negotiations or address conflicts involving Russia effectively.
To prohibit the use of Federal funds to support or facilitate the participation of the Russian Federation in the Group of Seven, and for other purposes.
Non-Recognition of Russian Annexation of Ukrainian Territory Act This bill prohibits any federal agency from taking any action or extending any assistance that recognizes or implies recognition of Russia's sovereignty over any internationally recognized territory of Ukraine, including its airspace and territorial waters.
A resolution condemning the deportation of children from Ukraine to the Russian Federation and the forcible transfer of children within territories of Ukraine that are temporarily occupied by Russian forces.
Condemning the Government of the Russian Federation for exacerbating global food insecurity through its illegal, unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Commending the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, and Maria Lvova-Belova, Commissioner for Children's Rights in the Office of the President of the Russian Federation, for two war crimes related to the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.