Obama signs Russian trade and human rights bill

[December 15, 2012]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama has signed a bill that will expand trade with Russia but could antagonize relations with Moscow over its treatment of dissidents.

While welcoming better trade relations, Russia has threatened retaliation over a section of the law that would punish Russian officials who allegedly commit human rights violations. A Russian official suggested sanctions could be imposed on U.S. officials accused of rights violations in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere.

Arizona Sen. John McCain, a main sponsor of the human rights measure, says it will help the Russian people by "sending a signal" to Russian President Vladimir Putin that human rights abuses will not be tolerated.

The law eliminates a 1974 law that tied trade relations with the former Soviet Union to the emigration of Jews and other minorities.

[Associated Press]

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