The situation in Ukraine is of great concern to many in the United States. The president and those of us in Congress must now weigh the consequences of Vladimir Putin’s actions and how to react to Russian aggression. I believe we may be able to counter Russia effectively by leveraging our vast energy supplies as a counterbalance to the tremendous Russian economic influence in that part of the world.

Russia has used its vast natural resources as another tool in expanding its grip on its neighbors, putting these countries at the mercy of the Russian economy and Putin’s discretion. The region is slow to challenge him, fearing spigots will be shut off, resources diverted and economies destabilized.

The House will soon consider legislation I cosponsored, HR 6, the “Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act,” which will empower the president to expedite the export of U.S. liquefied natural gas to our allies, including Ukraine and other Eastern European countries.

Doing so would send a clear signal that America intends to stand with Ukraine’s people and against Russia’s aggressive regime.

Increasing exports and creating jobs here in the United States is good public policy on its own. Complicating Putin’s calculations for regional dominance is of added benefit.

Rep. Leonard Lance (R-7th District)
Source: http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/03/congressman_pushes_energy_policy_as_weapon_against_russia_letter.html