(TargetLiberty.org) – Congress could be heading for a rare display of bipartisan unity, after lawmakers from both parties signaled support for sanctions on China if the Communist Party helps Russia conquer Ukraine. China is one of the few nations that refuse to condemn the Russian attack. Now, Congress is warning Beijing that if its fence-sitting tips over into active support, it could cost them.
Members of Congress from both parties have signaled they'd support penalties against China if the country assists Russia to circumvent U.S. and European Union sanctions. https://t.co/4IRsvqnxhm
— Newsmax (@newsmax) March 16, 2022
Since Russia launched its assault on February 24, China has been careful not to take sides – which, essentially, means it’s letting Russia get on with its war. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan claims China knew Vladimir Putin’s war plans in advance and did nothing. Then, on March 13, the media started reporting that China is considering Russian requests for economic and military support.
Following those reports, on Monday, Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) said he believes China is already supporting Russia, and called for sanctions on anyone involved. The call was immediately backed by Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), who both said pressure should be applied to anyone who helps Russia. Sullivan has also turned up the heat, saying there will “absolutely be consequences” if China tries to help Russia evade sanctions.
The question is, will Beijing take the Biden administration’s warnings any more seriously than Moscow did last month?
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