RI Congressional Delegation Reacts to Malaysia Airliner Attack

July 18, 2014 6:28 pm

Twitter: @markcurtisABC6

Members of Rhode Island‘s Congressional delegation were touring a South Country transportation project Friday, but many of their thoughts were half–a–world away.

Many in Congress want a full investigation of the Malaysian airliner shoot down, but already suspect Russian President Vladimir Putin may have played at least and indirect role.

“Stop trying to be an agent of mischief and discord. I think he got out of control his time, with letting the missiles in the hands of these people and we’ll have to see,” said Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, (D) Rhode Island.

Many suspect Russia has been arming rebels who want to gain control of Ukraine.

ABC6 Chief Political Reporter Mark Curtis said, “Right now there is widespread agreement that response needs to be international and not just by the United States.”

While the U.S. had announced previous economic sanctions against Russia for other violations, more could be coming.

“The international community needs to respond very forcefully with sanctions and making it clear that this is something that will never be tolerated,” said Rep. Jim Langevin, (D) Rhode Island.

“If it turns out there is some connection to the Russian Federation, President Putin or Russian separatists, this will require some response, particularly from NATO and our European partners,” said Rep. David Cicilline, (D) Rhode Island.

But the Congressional delegation cautions that our European allies may not be as supportive of sanctions because Europe depends heavily on Russian oil for its energy.