Newhouse, Schrier Weigh in on Russia Invasion

Both local members of Congress are speaking out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

4th District Representative Dan Newhouse described the reaction in Washington D.C. as a bipartisan push to be as swift and strong as possible.

Newhouse said he's under no illusion that Russian President Vladimir Putin will give up easily.

"This is something that I think he's been planning for a long, long time. He's determined and it's not going to be easy, it's not going to be quick." Newhouse said, "We absolutely need to do everything we can to make him feel the pain of this terrible decision."

The Sunnyside Republican added America needs to stand with its Ukrainian friends by giving them the resources and tools to defend themselves.

Newhouse also emphasized the continued need for the United States to be energy independent amid the current shocks to the oil market brought on by news of the war. Russia is the world's 2nd-largest oil producing country, behind only the U.S.

8th District Congresswoman Kim Schrier released the following statement Thursday:

“This unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is heartbreaking and a breach of global peace and stability. While the American people do not want to get pulled into another war on foreign soil, there will be consequences for Russia’s actions. This additional action today shows that we stand united with our allies in support of Ukraine to hold Putin accountable with punishing sanctions on Russia. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Ukraine and their friends and family here in the United States.”

Along with the ability to declare war, Congress has the ability to issue differing levels of sanctions against another country, person or entity.