On the recordMarch 24, 2014
I will be happy to yield to the distinguished Senator. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Arizona. Mr. McCAIN. I think it is very clear that Vladimir Putin has amassed forces on the border of Russia and eastern Ukraine, and right now he is calculating as to whether to move there or even into Moldova, where the Transnistrian region is now occupied and has been by Russian troops. Also, there is pressure on the Baltic countries that is being exerted as we speak, a lot of it in defense of ``Russian-speaking people.'' If we do not send this message now, with this package, in a bipartisan and strong manner, Vladimir Putin will be encouraged to enact further acts of aggression against Crimea and in the region. I would ask my colleague if he does not agree with that assessment.
