If recent approval polls are any judge, Americans are in no way pleased with how Biden is responding to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Most people don’t the U.S. embroiled in a war. But there is much more Biden can do to confront Putin’s unprovoked attack against a sovereign nation. Sadly, most Americans can only watch as Russia bombards Ukraine—and as Ukrainians fight for survival.
So, we shouldn’t be surprised to see people across the country find ways to support Ukraine. Some are sharing messages of hope on social media, displaying the Ukrainian flag. But in Texas, they are going one better. The governor is calling on Texas retailers to send a message to Russia in support of Ukraine. One that just might hammer it in the wallet.
Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott urged his state’s retailers on Saturday to voluntarily remove Russian products from shelves following the Kremlin’s invasion of Ukraine, noting, “Texas stands with Ukraine.”
Abbott shared the request in a Twitter post on Saturday afternoon to stand in support of Ukraine following Russia’s invasion last week.
“I’ve asked the members of the Texas Restaurant Association, Texas Package Stores Association & all Texas retailers to voluntarily remove all Russian products from their shelves,” Abbott wrote.
“Texas stands with Ukraine. #StandWithUkraine,” he added. [Source: Daily Wire]
Gov. Abbott called on Texas retailors, including stores and restaurants, to pull Russian products from their shelves. The goal is to stand with Ukraine as Putin attacks the country. Now, you might not be wearing a Russian-made shirt. But stores, restaurants, and bars across the state serve Russian-made vodka and other spirits. Pulling those from the shelves could have a financial impact on Russia businesses—which could inspire others across the country.
Viral videos have shown bar owners in various cities pouring vodka into drains outside their bars. They are refusing to serve the famous Russian alcohol, out of disgust for what Putin is doing. It might not be much, but it is a sign that Americans are standing with Ukraine. And it is possible such a boycott can have ramifications on Russia.
Word is spreading that Russia is already feeling financial pain from global sanctions leveled against it. Their currency is losing value. And countries all over the world are pulling flights and refusing to do business with the country. It might not be long before Russia’s economy demands Putin to withdraw from Ukraine.
A man like Putin is not easily intimidated. But even he knows the value of a ruble. If his country’s economy is severely hurt by this global response, he might not have a choice but to end his assault.
Hopefully, it won’t take very long before Russia sees the light.
Author: Kit Fargo