In the News

Today, Representatives Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and Steve Chabot (R-OH) re-introduced H.R. 463 the Crimea Annexation Non-recognition Act, legislation prohibiting federal agencies from taking action that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea. Identical legislation was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee in the 113th Congress and reintroduced in the 114th Congress.

“The United States must lead the way in refusing to recognize or legitimize the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation,” said Rep. Connolly. “Congress must be a loud and declarative voice for sovereignty. Failure to stand up against Putin’s illegal annexation of Crimea will set a dangerous and irrevocable precedent. Acquiescence on the part of the U.S. threatens the security of all sovereign nations."

Rep. Chabot noted, “when it comes to Russia, my colleagues and I have been abundantly clear that as the shining example of freedom and democracy, America has a duty to deny Russia’s claims of sovereignty over Crimea.” He added, “I believe that this bipartisan legislation is essential and I will continue to stand by my conviction that any action taken that legitimizes Russia’s claims over Crimea must be rebuked.”

“There is a bipartisan and international consensus that many of us have worked hard to establish in combatting Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and we heard that consensus loud and clear from both Democrats and Republicans,” added Connolly. “Our legislation makes clear that Congress will continue to stand with Crimea.”

The recently passed FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act includes similar language to this bill and prohibits DOD funds from being used on any action that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea. This legislation would simply apply that prohibition to the federal government writ-large.