Tillerson to testify in house as russia sanctions vote nears

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Tillerson to Testify in House as Russia Sanctions Vote Nears

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is set to testify before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday, just as the House is preparing to vote on new sanctions against Russia. The sanctions bill, which aims to punish Russia for its alleged interference in the 2016 US presidential election and its actions in Ukraine, is expected to pass the House with bipartisan support.

Tillerson's testimony comes as the Trump administration has been under pressure to take a tougher stance on Russia. The Secretary of State is expected to face questions from lawmakers about the administration's response to Russia's actions, as well as the impact of the sanctions on US-Russia relations.

The sanctions bill, which was introduced by Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker (R-TN) and Ranking Member Ben Cardin (D-MD), would impose new penalties on Russia for its alleged meddling in the 2016 election and its actions in Ukraine. The bill would also require the administration to provide Congress with a report on Russia's activities and would give lawmakers the ability to review and block any efforts to lift the sanctions.

The vote on the sanctions bill is expected to take place on Wednesday, and it is likely to pass with bipartisan support. The bill has been endorsed by a number of prominent Republicans, including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY).

The Trump administration has been divided on the issue of Russia sanctions, with some officials arguing that the penalties are too harsh and could harm US-Russia relations. However, Tillerson has previously expressed support for the sanctions bill, saying that it is an important step to hold Russia accountable for its actions.

Overall, Tillerson's testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee is likely to be closely watched, as lawmakers seek to understand the administration's position on Russia and the impact of the sanctions on US-Russia relations.