Statement by SASC Chairman John McCain on Expulsion of Russian Intelligence Officers

Statement

U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on President Trump's decision to expel 60 Russian intelligence officers from the United States:

"The President's decision to expel 60 Russian intelligence officers is a welcome step forward in holding Putin accountable for his outrageous chemical attack in Britain. It also makes clear that the United States will stand by our allies, and take action to protect the safety and security of NATO's territory.

"While today's decision sends an important signal to Moscow, the only way to ensure Putin and his cronies feel the consequences of their brazen actions is by punishing them financially. The administration must follow today's actions by enforcing robust sanctions on the Russian government and fully implementing the Countering America's Adversaries through Sanctions Act, which was overwhelmingly approved by Congress last year. Most importantly, the administration must develop a comprehensive strategy to deter and defend against Putin's aggression aimed at the United States and our allies around the world."

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