Fitzpatrick pledges bill to prohibit Russian oil purchases

Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick said he would propose bipartisan legislation banning purchases of Russian oil. His announcement follows a diesel supply agreement announced by Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.

Fitzpatrick plans to call the proposal the Ronald Reagan Peace Through Strength Act. He also pledged to pursue a House vote through a discharge procedure, which can bring legislation out of committee for consideration.

The congressman said he expected overwhelming support. His announcement, however, describes a planned initiative rather than a ban that has already passed. Democratic co-sponsors were not named in the announcement.

Trump announced the diesel agreement on October 9. He said Russia would immediately supply more than 300,000 tonnes to American and global markets, arguing that deliveries would help lower fuel prices. Fitzpatrick is now proposing a legislative restriction on purchases.