US senators introduce legislation to label Russia a state sponsor of terrorism

Two US senators have introduced a bill that would designate Russia a state sponsor of terrorism.

Ukraine has been pushing for Russia to be called a state sponsor of terrorism.

It is not yet known when or if the measure will face a vote.

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, one of the bill's sponsors, told a news conference: "The need for this measure is more pressing now than ever before."

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, another bill sponsor, said the designation would send a strong signal of support for Ukraine to Kyiv.

The two senators have been pushing for the designation for months. They recently visited Kyiv to promote it.

Other lawmakers have also spoken in favour of the idea with Democratic House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi saying in July the designation was "long overdue."

President Biden has previously said he does not plan to designate Russia a state sponsor of terrorism and officials have said this is not the most effective way to hold Russia accountable and it could hinder deliveries of humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.

Image: Pixabay