Lawmaker to offer measure allowing Americans to seize jets, yachts of Russia billionaires

Rep. Lance Gooden (R-Texas) is introducing a measure that would allow U.S. citizens to seize yachts and jets of sanctioned Russians.

“Corrupt Russian oligarchs have enabled Putin’s war,” the lawmaker tweeted. “We must use every tool at our disposal to stand up to Russia and stand with Ukraine.”

Corrupt Russian oligarchs have enabled Putin’s war.

That’s why I have introduced legislation to allow U.S. citizens to SEIZE yachts and jets of sanctioned Russians.

We must use every tool at our disposal to stand up to Russia and stand with @Ukraine!https://t.co/o6b61q4iHq

— Lance Gooden (@Lancegooden) February 28, 2022

Gooden wants to use letters of marque and reprisal, a license allowing citizens to engage in reprisals against citizens or vessels of another nation. The exclusive power to grant letters of marque lies with Congress pursuant to Article I of the Constitution.

“Russian yachts are already on the move and if the Biden Administration and our allies in Europe fail to act quickly these vessels will soon be out of our reach,” Gooden said in a statement to The Hill.

“We must use every tool available to ensure Putin’s inner circle is held accountable for enabling this disgusting invasion,” he added.

Former Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) introduced the “Marque and Reprisal Act of 2001,” in the aftermath of 9/11 and suggested Congress take up a similar measure against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Updated at 6:59 p.m.