The “First Barrage” Of Sanctions Against Russia Has Begun

Western nations moved forward on new sanctions against Moscow -- including a delay in its prized Nord Stream 2 pipeline -- in reaction to President Vladimir Putin’s move to recognize two separatist regions in Ukraine as independent states and to send troops to the territories. Russia’s two houses of parliament on February 22 rubber-stamped Putin’s decision by voting to ratify friendship treaties with the territories in eastern Ukraine controlled by Russia-backed separatists. Western leaders said Russia’s actions had increased…