Manchin Speaks Directly With Ukrainian President Zelensky

Charleston, WV – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) joined over 200 Members of Congress on a Zoom with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Senator Manchin asked President Zelensky about banning Russian energy imports to America.

“It was an honor to hear directly from President Zelensky this morning as he continues to lead his nation in defense against a senseless and illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin. President Zelensky has shown immense bravery and leadership in a time of crisis,” said Senator Manchin. “I questioned President Zelensky about the need for the United States to ban Russian energy imports and he wholeheartedly agreed. I will continue utilizing my role as Chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee to ensure that the full commitment of the American government is behind the Ukrainian people and to prevent Putin from gaining control of Ukraine. This includes supporting the transfer of Soviet-era military jets from Poland and any other ally to Ukraine’s military forces to counter Russian jets and cruise missiles.”

To view a photo of Senator Manchin Zooming with President Zelensky, please click here.

On Thursday, Senator Manchin led 20 bipartisan Senators in introducing the Ban Russian Energy Imports Act which would prohibit the importation of Russian crude oil, petroleum, petroleum products, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal. To learn more about the Ban Russian Energy Imports Act, please click here.