WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has reportedly endorsed a bipartisan sanctions package aimed at punishing Russia for its war in Ukraine, after a White House meeting with Sen. Lindsey Graham.
The bill, chiefly authored by Graham and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, would authorize tariffs and secondary sanctions on countries that buy Russia’s oil, gas, uranium and other exports, with the goal of choking Moscow’s war financing. Graham said a White House official confirmed the president’s support, though revisions to the package could be discussed.
A House companion has been introduced by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, and the legislation has dozens of co-sponsors in the Senate. Graham said there could be a vote as early as next week, depending on whether the Senate advances the broader funding package and House action. The White House has emphasized flexibility and is weighing changes; the administration has also pressed for a pace that aligns with ongoing negotiations to end the Ukraine war.
If enacted, the sanctions would empower the administration to impose tariffs on countries that purchase Russian energy, a move officials say could shrink Moscow’s financing for its military activities. The push comes as several parties seek to increase pressure on Russia while working toward a peace agreement, with U.S. officials saying they could lead to new security guarantees for Ukraine. As always, Senate and House leaders are navigating the delicate balance between hardline sanctions and the political realities of global markets.