Senators Threaten Saudi Arms Deal Over Oil Prices [View All]

Senators Threaten Saudi Arms Deal Over Oil Prices
By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Published: 13 May 16:41 EDT (12:41 GMT)

WASHINGTON - A group of Democratic senators on May 13 threatened to block a multimillion dollar U.S. arms deal with Saudi Arabia unless the kingdom ups oil production and helps cut soaring gasoline prices.

The Senators introduced a resolution of disapproval on the arms sale as President Bush prepared to head for Saudi Arabia, partly on a mission to contain runaway oil prices.

"We are saying to the Saudis that, if you don't help us, why should we be helping you?" said Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. "We are saying that we need real relief, and we need it quickly. You need our arms, but we need you to cooperate and not strangle American consumers."

The resolution, expected to be fast-tracked to the Senate floor, would prohibit the mammoth arms sale unless Saudi Arabia agrees to increase oil production by one million barrels per day.

Schumer said such an increase could bring down the price of a gallon of gasoline at the pump by 50 to 75 cents.


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