(LibertySociety.com) – Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) stated she was in opposition of the move to ban Russian oil imports, calling the potential move “immoral.” Still, on March 8, President Joe Biden announced the United States would ban all Russian imports of oil, energy, and gas as the war continues in Ukraine. Rumors swirled the US leader might consider increasing Saudi Arabian imports to fill the gap, and Omar spoke out against the idea.
The Minnesota lawmaker said the United States should avoid strengthening its relationship with the Middle Eastern country due to the alleged humanitarian crisis happening in the region. Omar encouraged the president to look at the long-term implications of ramping up oil dependence from Saudi Arabia.
.@IlhanMN tells us she’s a no on the legislation being written to ban Russian oil imports, which’ll include additional sanctions.
Full interview covers the role of the UAE in protecting Russian oligarchs and the hypocrisy of cozying up to Saudi Arabia pic.twitter.com/bi7vrkcYUt
— Ryan Grim (@ryangrim) March 8, 2022
Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) suggested Biden replace the lost oil by producing more here at home instead of turning to nations like Saudi Arabia and Venezuela.
Although the administration didn’t confirm where it will make up for the shortfall on Russian imports, they did verify the ban will result in even higher gas prices in America. However, the president warned gas and oil companies against using the opportunity to price gouge at the pump.
Fanning Omar’s fears, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki refused to corroborate whether Biden advisors were planning a trip to Saudi Arabia to discuss oil exports. If the government turns to them for help, the Minnesota lawmaker believes it would be no different than continuing imports from Russia.
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