Schatz Meets with Former U.S. Ambassador McFaul Following Trump’s Comments Suggesting He May Hand Over the Diplomat to Putin for Questioning
Meeting Also Follows Unanimous Senate Passage of Schatz’s Resolution Opposing Putin’s Request
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and a group of a dozen Democratic senators met with former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul to reassure him of Congress’ opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s request to question current and former U.S. officials, including Ambassador McFaul.
“Today, I met with Ambassador Michael McFaul and told him that the Senate has his back. The Congress will not allow Americans who served our country to be handed over to the Russians for questioning,” said Senator Schatz. “These public servants deserve nothing less than our support and gratitude.”
Earlier this month in Helsinki, Putin made the request to question American citizens to President Trump, who called the proposal an “incredible offer.” Following Trump’s suggestion that he may be open to allowing a known adversary question former and current U.S. officials, Schatz and Senate leaders quickly condemned the proposal and introduced a resolution affirming the Congress’ opposition to Putin’s suggestion. The Senate quickly rejected Putin’s request and unanimously passed Schatz’s resolution.
###
