H.R.2622 - Russia-North Korea Cooperation Sanctions Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2622, the Russia-North Korea Cooperation Sanctions Act, aims to impose sanctions on foreign individuals and entities involved in the transfer of arms or material support from North Korea to Russia for use in the war in Ukraine. The bill targets those facilitating these transactions, including financial institutions, and expands existing sanctions related to North Korea. It also mandates regular reports to Congress on North Korea's support for Russia's war efforts.
Expected Effects
The Act, if enacted, would likely increase economic pressure on North Korea and Russia by penalizing entities that facilitate arms transfers between the two countries. This could potentially disrupt the supply of North Korean arms to Russia, impacting Russia's military operations in Ukraine. The sanctions could also deter other nations or entities from engaging in similar activities with North Korea and Russia.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthens national security by countering the proliferation of arms and support for Russia's war in Ukraine.
- Reinforces international norms against the transfer of arms to conflict zones.
- Potentially reduces the intensity of the conflict in Ukraine by limiting Russia's access to weapons.
- Holds foreign entities accountable for supporting actions that undermine international peace and security.
- Enhances the credibility of U.S. sanctions policy.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain diplomatic relations with countries that have economic ties to North Korea or Russia.
- May have limited practical impact if entities find ways to circumvent the sanctions.
- Could lead to unintended consequences, such as increased humanitarian suffering in North Korea if economic pressure becomes too severe.
- Risk of retaliatory actions from Russia or North Korea.
- Potential for negative impacts on legitimate trade and economic activity.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional power of Congress to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) and to declare war and provide for the common defense (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1). It also falls under the President's authority to conduct foreign policy. The sanctions imposed are subject to due process considerations, ensuring fair treatment under the law, aligning with the Fifth Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).