The move, which is likely to push energy prices even higher, comes as the administration increases sanctions pressure on the Russian economy over the war in Ukraine. (via NBC News)
“Putin's war is already hurting American families at the gas pump," Biden said."I’m going to do everything I can to minimize Putin's price hike here at home.”
The president said the U.S. had made the decision to ban Russian energy products"in close consultation" with allies around the world, particularly in Europe. He said many of those partners may not be able to take the same action. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., told her caucus Tuesday afternoon that the House would vote later in the day on legislation to ban Russian oil, though Biden doesn't need congressional action to move forward with the ban. The bill, which was still being written, is expected to go further than the president's announcement.