Americans are saying nyet to Russian made products, alcohol in particular, in support of the people of Ukraine who are under attack by Vladimir Putin and the invading Russian military.
Some Rhode Island liquor stores including 1776 Liquors in Bristol and Patriot Wine and Spirits in Warren are no longer selling Russian made products. Audrey Field, owner of Patriot Wine and Spirits said, "We wanted to do what we could to be supportive of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. It's better to do something, even if it's symbolic something than to do nothing at all."
You’ll notice some Russian made brands of vodka missing from the shelves, but there are still many other brands to choose from including Tito's, made in the good ole US of A. Austin, Texas to be specific, and it’s my favorite anyway.
Thomas Sousa, the general manager 1776 Liquors, said they’ve had a very positive response, and so far, customers haven't minded switching brands.
They’re hoping other businesses will echo this decision including restaurants and bars, and others are already following suit. This is happening across the country, liquor stores, restaurants and bars in the US and Canada are boycotting Russian made alcohol. On Saturday in New Hampshire, Governor Chris Sununu ordered all vodka made in Russia taken off shelves in state-run liquor stores. In Massachusetts, state Rep. Patrick Kearney, D-Scituate introduced a bill banning the purchase and or consumption of products made in Russia.
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