Mitchell Suggests Bahamas Will Join Allies on Sanctions

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Amid the ongoing standoff between Russia and other world leaders following its invasion into Ukraine. Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell is speaking out, suggesting The Bahamas may have to tow the line and side with its partners on sanctions.

Berthony Mcdermott reports.

Days after the United States urged The Bahamas to close its airspace to Russian aircraft and limit Russian access to the financial system, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell says it’s a matter that will take a few days to deliberate.

But Mitchell suggests The Bahamas will have to side with its allies.

On Friday, United States Embassy Public Affairs Officer Daniel Durazo said they welcome efforts by allies and partners to make Russian President Vladimir Putin pay the price for his “unprovoked and unjustified attack on an independent and democratic Ukraine.”

Mitchell says many banks are acting as if sanctions have been imposed by the government. But he reiterated the decision hasn’t been made yet.

The Russian Ambassador to Cuba claimed trade between the two countries more than doubled last year, when compared to the year before, adding, “Russia is ready for active cooperation with The Bahamas.”

The United Nations Trade Statistics Branch reported that Russia exported over $281 million worth of goods to The Bahamas in 2019.