Biden highlights new sanctions on Russia, more aid for Ukraine after meeting with NATO allies

March 24, 2022 Amber Coakley US 0

President Joe Biden arrives for a round table meeting at an EU summit in Brussels, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

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UPDATED 2:27 PM PT – Thursday, March 24, 2022

President Joe Biden highlighted the latest sanctions against Russia and efforts to help Ukraine after meeting with fellow NATO leaders in Belgium. During a press conference in Brussels Thursday, Biden said the sanctions are targeting hundreds of Russian lawmakers, oligarchs and defense companies that “fuel the nation’s war machine.”

Tune in as I hold a press conference about my meetings in Europe with Allies and partners on our response to Russia’s war on Ukraine. https://t.co/KSakZNhnET

— President Biden (@POTUS) March 24, 2022

He confirmed plans to commit more than $1 billion in humanitarian aid to help Ukrainians affected by the war as well as plans to allow up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees into the U.S. Biden also noted NATO is fortifying the alliance’s eastern flank in a move which could lead to more U.S. troops in Europe.

Today, I announced that the United States will welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russia’s aggression.

We’re focused on reuniting families and providing refuge to those in harm’s way.

— President Biden (@POTUS) March 24, 2022

Biden notably said sanctions were never meant to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from attacking Ukraine, but suggested the long-term impact of such measures will prompt him to end the war.

Separately, House GOP Conference chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) asserted that Putin is “committing genocide” in his ongoing assault on Ukraine. She made the comment while speaking to reporters Thursday at the House GOP annual retreat and also called Putin an authoritarian and war criminal.

Stefanik also told reporters House Republicans have been consistent in their opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Republican’s condemnation of Putin comes as U.S. and European allies have strongly denounced Russia over suspected war crimes in Ukraine.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken declared Russian forces have committed war crimes during their invasion. In a statement on Wednesday, he highlighted the countless accounts and images of suffering and destruction.

According to Blinken, nearly 5,000 Ukrainians have died as a result of Russia’s attacks. Secretary Blinken described Russia’s assaults as unjust and unprovoked. He noted, his declaration is based on the Biden administration’s ongoing review of information from public and intelligence sources.