Bay Area Lawmakers, Politicians Condemn Russia's Attack On Ukraine, Demand Consequences

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- Bay Area politicians and lawmakers condemned Russia's attack on Ukraine and called for swift consequences for Russia and its President Vladimir Putin.

On Thursday, President Joe Biden declared Russia's continuing assault on Ukraine a "premeditated attack" and announced additional economic sanctions the U.S. and Western allies will impose on Russia in response to its aggressive actions. Russia will also be hit with new export controls, which Mr. Biden said will block more than half of Russia's high-tech imports and strike a blow to Moscow's military and technological capabilities.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued a statement calling Russia's war on Ukraine "an attack on democracy and a grave violation of international law, global peace and security."

"The response of America and our allies will be severe, ongoing and devastating for Russia, economically, diplomatically, and strategically," Pelosi added. "President Biden has made clear throughout Russia's escalation that we will continue to impose costs on Russia that will leave it weakened in every way.  These include the further steps announced today of sweeping and catastrophic sanctions on financial institutions, companies and individuals critical to the Russian economy and of further military support to bolster NATO.  As always, we will continue to fully support the people of Ukraine with humanitarian assistance and weapons to defend their country."

Rep. Eric Swalwell Thursday issued a statement calling Putin "a ruthless dictator whose actions are a threat to democracies everywhere" and urging a unified international response to the invasion.

"We are not helpless. Through unity we can stop him. And we can do so without U.S. troops firing a single shot," said Swalwell. "On the front lines our military must give resources to the Ukrainians to assist in their defense, and our intelligence community must share actionable information. Globally, we must lead a sanctions regime that stops the flow of Russia's money, oil, and travelers."

Swalwell added: "Most importantly, we must unite the American people at home, even as former President Trump roots for Russia. I hope every American recognizes the privilege of living in a free country. What is our democracy worth if we can't stand against the invasion of another's?"

California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a tweet "There must be consequences" for Russia's unprovoked attack.

In a statement Thursday, Sen. Dianne Feinstein called on the international community to "ensure that Putin and his government are met with severe consequences."

Feinstein also expressed concern over a possible escalation of the war and Putin's threats alluding to its nuclear arsenal.

"There is no question that Putin's actions have been destructive and dangerous and pose the risk of escalating into a broader war in Europe. Even more dangerous are his suggestions of nuclear action and threats against the United States and NATO. Any such move will be met with an overwhelming response, and Congress must come together to make that message crystal clear."

Oakland Congresswoman Barbara Lee also issued a statement.

"My prayers are with the people of Ukraine as they face this unprovoked, unjustified attack by Russian military forces. Once again, Putin is spurning diplomacy, choosing to escalate his lawless invasion of Ukraine. His actions will expand the humanitarian crisis and cause untold human suffering," the statement read. "The United States must be ready to support the victims of this conflict with humanitarian and economic assistance. We must continue working diligently with our allies on diplomatic solutions, including through the United Nations, to secure an immediate ceasefire."

She added, "I know that the Ukrainian people want democracy and that they will defend their country. I vehemently condemn Putin's imperialist ambitions and call upon the international community to come together in defense of human rights, global peace, and democracy."

"Today, I'm praying for the brave people of Ukraine as their country suffers Russia's military assault," said Rep. Anna Eshoo in a statement on Thursday. "We know Vladimir Putin is an enemy of democracy and he has revealed his purposeful pursuit of his authoritarian ambitions. I fully support the U.S. and our allies to inflict tough sanctions to make clear to Mr. Putin and autocrats throughout the world that attacks on free and sovereign countries will be met with severe consequences."

President Biden said Thursday the U.S. will impose sanctions on four of Russia's largest banks, in addition to two financial institutions the U.S. sanctioned earlier this week, meaning "every asset they have in America will be frozen," he said.

"Putin is the aggressor. Putin chose this war. And now he and his country will bear the consequences," Mr. Biden said during remarks at the White House, hours after the Russian assault began on Ukraine.

NATO will convene a summit Friday to bring together the leaders of 30 allied nation to map out their next steps, Mr. Biden said. Still, the president emphasized U.S. forces "are not going to Europe to fight in Ukraine," but to defend and reassure NATO allies in the region.

Mr. Biden told reporters he has "no plans" to talk to Putin. He did not answer a question asking why the U.S. isn't sanctioning Putin directly now.

In:
• Ukraine
• Russia