Montana’s top political leaders issued statements Thursday as the United States announced new sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
Republican Sen. Steve Daines called Putin “a thug” and said he does not support sending American troops to Ukraine. President Biden has ordered more U.S. troops to Europe and its NATO allies but has said the forces will not engage in the conflict in Ukraine. A spokesperson for Daines said he supports sanctions against Russia but thinks it’s too late.
I’m praying for the people of Ukraine and condemn Putin’s outrageous attack on their sovereignty and independence.
— Steve Daines (@SteveDaines) February 24, 2022
Democratic Sen. Jon Tester says Putin single-handedly started a war that makes the world less safe. Tester says he supports the actions the Biden administration and U.S. allies took against Russia and will continue to support NATO and European allies.
I stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and with every freedom-loving democracy in condemning Russia’s illegal military actions. pic.twitter.com/22mu9JIz2r
— Senator Jon Tester (@SenatorTester) February 24, 2022
Meanwhile, Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale said Thursday he does not support sending troops overseas and the United States has no obligation to aid Russia or Ukraine in the conflict.
Here's my response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine: pic.twitter.com/Ahhn6Nx5xn
— Matt Rosendale (@RepRosendale) February 24, 2022
Gov. Greg Gianforte says the U.S. and democratic allies should "respond immediately with strict, comprehensive sanctions against Russia."
Montana stands with the freedom-loving people of Ukraine. It is time to respond immediately with strict, comprehensive sanctions against Russia. pic.twitter.com/faIR4UEgbX
— Governor Greg Gianforte (@GovGianforte) February 24, 2022
Montana National Guard troops have not received orders or changed their operations in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but they are monitoring the situation closely.
Major Ryan Finnegan said in a statement the state national guard is standing by for any changes that higher headquarters may order.
President Joe Biden announced Thursday he’s ordering additional U.S. troops to Europe, but said they will not be engaged in conflict with Russia in Ukraine.
According to Finnegan, approximately 520 Montana National Guard troops are overseas currently. About 40 are in Europe.
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