(ANSA) - WASHINGTON, 13 JAN - There is a duel in the Senate between two bills that provide for sanctions against Russia for Ukrainian tears.
The first, sponsored by Republican Senator Ted Cruz, aims to immediately introduce sanctions against the German-Russian gas pipeline Nord Stream 2.
The second, promoted by Senator Bob Menendez and supported by the White House, provides for a wide spectrum of sanctions - even against Vladimir Putin and the his inner circle according to the Wall Street Journal - but only in case Moscain invades Ukraine.
The Biden administration is pressing on demincer senators to prevent them from voting on the republican measure, thus reducing the pressure on the Kremlin and increasing the already high tension.
The dem law also provides for sanctions against NordStream 2 (the same that had been suspended in order not to compromise relations with Berlin), in addition to the blocking of financial messaging services in Russia (such as the Swift) and the prohibition of transactions related to Russian sovereign debt.
The provision also authorizes another 500 million military aid and the immediate transfer of military weapons and equipment to Kiev, again in the event of Russian aggression.
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