Larson 'Encouraged' by Russian Support to Disarm Syria of Chemical Weapons

U.S. Rep. John B. Larson (D-1st Dist.) said in a prepared statement today that he is “encouraged” that Russia would support an effort by the international community to collect and destroy Syria’s chemical weapons.

Such a move would appear to mitigate an international military action.

Larson said the following:

“I am encouraged by Russia’s response to Secretary [of State John] Kerry’s remarks and believe this call to collect and destroy Syria’s supply of chemical weapons is a necessary step towards preventing the future use of chemical weapons in the Middle East and around the world. These actions, combined with a continued and complete investigation by the United Nations Security Council into the atrocities committed by the Assad Regime, would serve as an appropriate response.

"At my recent forum in West Hartford, constituents expressed that to do nothing was not the answer, despite anxiety over U.S involvement in another conflict. Further, many asked that all diplomatic and international efforts be exhausted before moving forward. That is why I welcome Russia’s announcement today, as it demonstrates their willingness to be a key player in the United Nations Security Council and work towards a diplomatic solution.”

Last week, Larson announced plans to introduce a resolution in Congress in support of an international response to Syria. In addition to the resolution, Larson sent letters to U.N. Ambassador Samantha Power, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon along with a letter to Congressional leadership on the issue.