The US has voted for sanctions on Russia, Iran and North Korea.
The overwhelming vote against the three countries comes despite Donald Trump’s objections to the legislation.
And the bill was passed with support from Democrat representatives as well as fellow Republicans.
Republican congressman from California, Ed Royce, explained why it was important: “These three regimes in different parts of the world are threatening vital U.S. interests and they are destabilizing their neighbours. It is well past time that we forcefully respond,” he said.
It now needs to go before the Senate but support in the lower house is solid
Joaquin Castro said it was important to send out the right message: “These sanctions are a clear signal that the United States will hold President Putin and his close associates accountable for their actions. They are also a declaration that Congress can and will act even when President Trump refuses to do so.”
If the bill is successful it will need to be sent to the White House for Trump to sign into law or veto. He has not yet decided what he will do
But it comes at a time when investigations are underway about possible collusion between the 2016 Presidental Trump campaign and Russia.
