Ukrainian experts have already called this package of sanctions a series of precise strikes at "pain points" of Vladimir Putin and his nearest circle. However, a number of analysts fears that some of the EU member states that have business with Russia will resist new sanctions and that sanctions alone, even the strongest ones, will not be enough to make the Kremlin agree to get out of Ukraine.
The decision of the House of Representatives was adopted almost unanimously: 419 votes in favor, three against. The President of the Centre for Global Studies "Strategy XXI" Mykhailo Gonchar explains such accord with domestic political motives. According to him, it is important for congressmen to limit Donald Trump's ability to make voluntaristic decisions.
"But there is also a powerful international dimension," he agrees. - "Sanctions against Russia are bundled in a package with sanctions against Iran and North Korea. It is hard to find those who will oppose".
In addition, according to the expert, the decision of the lower chamber of the Congress should be a signal for the European Union, whose anti-Russian sanctions he sees as ineffective.
"The fall in oil prices had greater impact on Russia, but not sanctions imposed," Mykhailo Gonchar reminds. - "I think Trump will have nothing left except to sign this bill. The number of votes says that if he avoids signing, his veto will be easily overcome".
