Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday called on the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board to pull Russian-sourced liquor from shelves.
In a statement announcing her request, Ivey called the move a “small, but meaningful” way for Alabama to show its support for the Ukrainian people.
“This is a small, but meaningful way to take action and show the people of Ukraine we support them while also firmly stating our opposition to the unnecessary humanitarian crisis Russia has inexcusably created,” stated Ivey. “I encourage all Alabama citizens and businesses to explore ways they can show support for Ukraine and discourage Russia for continuing this unreasonable siege on a neighboring country.”
The governor penned a letter to Alabama ABC administrator Mac Gipson outlining her request.
“I know that you watched in dismay last week–with me, with the people of Alabama, and indeed with the entire Nation–as Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated an unprovoked and dangerous war against Ukraine, our democratic ally.
As a show of solidarity with the people of Ukraine, I am asking you, as ABC Board Administrator, to immediately remove all Russian-sourced liquor products from the shelves of ABC stores throughout the State of Alabama. Please note that this request applies only to liquor products actually sourced in Russia and does not extend to Russian-themed liquor products that are sourced in some other nation. The removal should be in effect until further notice.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine puts millions of innocent lives at risk and represents an all-out assault on democracy. It is my hope that, by taking this action, the State of Alabama may contribute to Russia’s deserved–and increasing–economic isolation. Through this action, we strive to express our solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they oppose this senseless attack not just on their homeland but also on the democratic principles that we, too, hold so dear.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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