US Senators move to block Trump’s civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia

WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (YPA) – Democratic Senators Jeff Merkley and Ed Markey have introduced a joint resolution of disapproval to block President Donald Trump’s civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia.

The legislative measure mandates a Senate vote following the mandatory review period ending November 29.

The lawmakers expressed concern that the agreement provides Riyadh access to American civilian nuclear technology without sufficient restrictions or safeguards to prevent its proliferation into a nuclear weapons program.

In a press statement, Merkley emphasized that nations seeking civil nuclear programs must commit to the “gold standard” of restrictions regarding spent fuel reprocessing and uranium enrichment, coupled with stringent inspections to prevent clandestine weapons development.

Under federal law, civil nuclear agreements take effect after a 90-day congressional review window unless blocked by legislation. House Democrats have introduced a companion resolution; however, prospects for blocking the agreement remain low, as overturning it requires 60 Senate votes and a presidential veto override.

YPA