House Approves Russia Sanctions Bill

House Approves Russia Sanctions BillOn Tuesday, the House voted 419-3 to pass a bill that strengthens sanctions against Russia in response to its alleged interference in the 2016 presidential election. The sanctions primarily target Russian oil and gas projects with companies based in the United States and a handful of other countries, and will be difficult for President Trump to lift because he will need approval from Congress. It now heads to the Senate for a vote, and could be sent to Trump to sign into law before August, when Congress begins its recess. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the sanctions would be “harmful” to U.S.-Russian relations. The package also includes sanctions against Iran and North Korea, due to their weapons programs.