Russian Bank Hires Former U.S. Senators to Fight Sanctions

Trent Lott and John Breaux represent Gazprombank

A Russian bank hit with sanctions by President Obama has hired two former senators to lobby against the punishment in Washington.

Former Senate Republican leader Trent Lott and John Breaux, a Democrat, have been named the main lobbyists for Gazprombank in registration forms reported by the Center for Public Integrity. They have been a powerhouse duo on K Street for years.

The United States in July increased sanctions against Russia over increased tensions in Ukraine by targeting banks, energy and defense companies, and individuals with close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gazprombank is Russia's third-largest bank and the finance arm of Russia's largest natural gas company.