Sen. Schatz Meets With Former U.S. Ambassador McFaul Following Trump’s Comments

Sen. Brian Schatz. File photo

Sen. Brian Schatz met with Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul following President Trump’s comments suggesting he may hand over the diplomat to Russia President Vladimir Putin for questioning. The meeting follows unanimous Senate passage of Sen. Schatz’s resolution opposing Putin’s request

Ambassador McFaul is appealing to White House officials to not buckle under to President Putin’s idea to allow a group of Americans to be questioned by Russia, in exchange for allowing 12 Russian intelligence operatives accused of hacking Democratic entities in 2016 to be questioned by the special counsel’s team.

“Today, I met with Ambassador Michael McFaul and told him that the Senate has his back,” said Sen. Schatz. “The Congress will not allow Americans who served our country to be handed over to the Russians for questioning. These public servants deserve nothing less than our support and gratitude.”

Earlier this month in Helsinki, Putin made the request to question American citizens to President Trump, who called the proposal an “incredible offer.” Following Trump’s suggestion that he may be open to allowing a known adversary question former and current U.S. officials, Sen. Schatz and Senate leaders quickly condemned the proposal and introduced a resolution affirming the Congress’ opposition to Putin’s suggestion. The Senate quickly rejected Putin’s request and unanimously passed Sen. Schatz’s resolution.