Reed to Trump: ‘Rigorous sanctions’ needed against Russia

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (WLNE) — As President Donald Trump criticizes Russian President Vladimir Putin, Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed is hoping it turns into action.

Speaking with ABC6 News in Central Falls Tuesday morning, Reed said he hopes Trump concentrates on strong sanctions against Russia and sending additional aid to Ukrainian armed forces.

“His change of tone is, like everything else, transitory,” Reed said. “What we really have to see is tangible action — rigorous sanctions that will constrict the Russian economy [and] significant aid to Ukraine.”

Trump again criticized Putin in a Truth Social post Tuesday.

ABC News reported Tuesday a Russian drone attack killed dozens of Ukranians and injured more than 100 people in Ukraine, citing Ukrainian officials.

Reed is a cosponsor of a Russian sanctions bill in the Senate, which enjoys bipartisan support.

The bill would levy a 500 percent tariff on imports from countries that buy Russian oil, petroleum products, natural gas, or uranium, Reed’s office said.

Reed said despite Trump’s comments about Putin, he’s still concerned the president will abandon United States efforts in the region entirely.

“He’s basically signaling in so many ways he’s just going to walk away from it, which would be a disaster for Ukraine and for our national security,” Reed said.