Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.Res.110 - Condemning Russia’s illegal abduction of Ukrainian children. (119th Congress)

Summary

Senate Resolution 110 condemns Russia's illegal abduction of Ukrainian children since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It highlights that Russian forces have abducted, forcibly transferred, or facilitated the illegal deportation of at least 20,000 Ukrainian children. The resolution implores Russia to work with the international community to ensure the return of these children to their families without delay.

The resolution expresses the Senate's condemnation of these actions. It also calls for international cooperation to address the issue.

The resolution does not create any new laws or allocate funding; it is a statement of the Senate's position.

Expected Effects

The resolution is primarily symbolic, expressing the Senate's condemnation. It aims to increase international pressure on Russia regarding the abduction of Ukrainian children.

It may influence future legislative actions or foreign policy decisions related to Russia and Ukraine. However, it does not have direct legal consequences.

The resolution could also raise awareness among the American public about the situation in Ukraine.

Potential Benefits

  • Increased International Pressure: The resolution adds to the international condemnation of Russia's actions, potentially leading to greater diplomatic and economic pressure.
  • Moral Support for Ukraine: It signals the U.S. Senate's support for Ukraine and its people, which can boost morale.
  • Awareness Raising: The resolution brings attention to the issue of abducted Ukrainian children, potentially prompting further action from international organizations and NGOs.
  • Potential for Future Legislation: It could lay the groundwork for future legislation aimed at holding Russia accountable or providing aid to Ukrainian children and families.
  • Reinforces Human Rights Principles: The resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting children in armed conflict and upholding international human rights laws.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Limited Direct Impact: As a resolution, it does not have the force of law and may not directly compel Russia to return the children.
  • Potential for Escalation: While unlikely, strong condemnation could further strain relations with Russia.
  • Risk of Inaction: The resolution could be seen as a substitute for more concrete actions, such as sanctions or direct aid.
  • Focus on a Single Issue: While important, focusing solely on this issue might overshadow other critical aspects of the conflict in Ukraine.
  • Unrealistic Expectations: The resolution's call for Russia to work with the international community may be unrealistic given the current geopolitical climate.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution aligns with the U.S. Constitution's broad goals of promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty, as stated in the Preamble. While the Constitution does not explicitly address foreign policy resolutions of this nature, the Senate's power to express its opinion on international matters is generally understood as part of its role in foreign affairs.

Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to declare war, implying a broader authority to engage in foreign policy. Amendment I protects the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances, which can be interpreted as supporting the Senate's right to address international human rights issues.

The resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or provisions.

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).