[Putin] is a bully. And bullies only understand when we punch them in the nose, but we need to do that economically.
Kelly AyotteIn the midst of our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Putin invaded the Republic of Georgia. Let's call it for what it is. Here is Vladimir Putin with a failing Soviet franchise. And when he can't win the hearts and minds of his neighboring nations, he uses energy extortion, masked gunmen and barbed wire.
Kelly AyotteThe best way to marginalize the Muslim Brotherhood [in Egypt] is in the ballot box, not through arrests and killing people.
Kelly AyotteIf we were to impose greater sanctions on economic sectors, I think we could have a significant impact on Putin.
Kelly AyotteWe need to send a message to Vladimir Putin through stronger sanctions. We need him to understand that the sanctions that we put in place can have a significant impact on his economy that we need to deter further action from him. And understand who he is, former KGB colonel, he's a bully, and bullies only understand when we punch them in the nose but we need to do that economically. That is our strongest move at this point.
Kelly Ayotte