Political Quotes

“I thank Mr. Gallego for yielding the time. Last year, this Congress came together to oppose Putin's attempts to weaponize Europe's energy resources. I stand here today to urge my colleagues to continue to stand firm against Russia's coercive tactics. With the 1,200-kilometer Nord Stream 2 pipeline nearly completed, time is running out. Should Putin be able to finish the remaining 100 kilometers of pipe, the energy security of the entire continent would be compromised. Let us not forget that Russia has cut energy supplies to Ukraine in the past and is illegally occupying parts of the country. With an even greater stranglehold on Europe's energy market, Putin could exert his influence to devastating effect. This amendment we debate today only clarifies and expands on sanctions that were passed last year. It will also put Vladimir Putin and his cronies on notice that they will not profit from the weaponization of Europe's energy markets. Some critics argue that a new round of sanctions on Nord Stream 2 would infringe on European security and sovereignty. In reality, the opposite is true. The completion of the pipeline and the result would increase Europe's energy dependence on Russia and present a real danger to European security and sovereignty. Moreover, most EU members, including Poland and the Baltic states, oppose the NS2 pipeline project and are concerned it would give Russia greater political and economic leverage over Germany and the rest of Europe.…”