On March 16, 2014, Executive Order 13661 was issued to expand the scope of the national emergency initially declared in Executive Order 13660. This expansion was due to actions and policies by the Government of the Russian Federation concerning Ukraine, which were seen as undermining democratic processes and institutions. These actions also threatened Ukraine's peace, security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while contributing to asset misappropriation.
Further expansion occurred on March 20, 2014, with Executive Order 13662. This order responded to Russia's purported annexation of Crimea and its use of force in Ukraine. It continued to address threats similar to those identified in previous orders.
On December 19, 2014, another measure was taken through Executive Order 13685. This order aimed at addressing the Russian occupation of Crimea more comprehensively.
The situation outlined in these executive orders continues to present a significant threat to U.S. national security and foreign policy interests. Consequently, the national emergency declared on March 6, 2014, along with measures enacted on that date and subsequently on March 16 and March 20 of that year and December 19 later that year must remain active beyond March 6, 2015. In line with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. §1622(d)), this national emergency is extended for an additional year.
"This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress," stated Barack Obama.