28 Mar 2014 10:07

U.S. Congress approves aid to Ukraine linked to sanctions on Russia

WASHINGTON, DC. March 28 (Interfax) - The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to approve an aid package for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.

The bills were passed by 399 votes to 19 in the House and by 98 to 2 in the Senate.

They backed financial support to Ukraine and sanctions against Russian officials and citizens whom the Congress suspects of violating Ukrainian sovereignty and engagement in corruptive practices in that country.

The Congress will now reconcile the bills and submit the final edition to U.S. President Barack Obama for signing. This may happen before the end of the week.