US officials not 'saddened' by Russian sanctions
U.S. officials and lawmakers do not seem to be concerned about the "reciprocal sanctions” imposed by Russia. The sanctions, according to a Foreign Ministry statement, appear to be travel restrictions imposed on senior U.S. officials and lawmakers. Among those barred from Russia are Deputy National Security Adviser Benjamin Rhodes, senators John McCain, Daniel Coats, Mary Landrieu, Robert Menendez and Harry Reid, as well as House Speaker John Boehner, the Foreign Ministry said. Michael Steel, Mr Boehner’s spokesman, said on Thursday that the sanctions did not sadden the U.S. officials: “The speaker [John Boehner] is proud to be included on a list of those willing to stand against Putin’s aggression,” said Steel. Similar reaction was received by Senators Robert Menendez and John McCain who said they will not stop fighting for democracy, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine, including Crimea.
