US Senators Push Bipartisan Bill to Equip Trump with Sweeping Sanctions Against RussiaWASHINGTON

, July 14 — A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is advancing legislation that would grant President Donald Trump expansive powers to impose severe economic sanctions on Russia and its allies, in a bid to accelerate the end of the war in Ukraine.
Dubbed a “sledgehammer” by its proponents, the bill would authorize Trump to levy tariffs of up to 500% on countries that support Russia’s war effort by purchasing its oil, gas, or uranium. The measure, spearheaded by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, has garnered support from 85 Senate co-sponsors, signaling strong momentum ahead of a potential floor vote.
“This is truly a sledgehammer available to President Trump to go after Putin’s economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine,” Graham said during an appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation.
The legislation comes amid escalating Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, which have prompted renewed calls for tougher U.S. action. Trump, who has expressed growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, recently approved additional weapons shipments to Ukraine through NATO and hinted at a major announcement on Russia expected Monday.
Democratic Senator Blumenthal emphasized the urgency of unlocking $5 billion in frozen Russian assets in the U.S. and Europe to aid Ukraine’s recovery. “It’s time to do it,” he said, noting that European allies are also preparing to mobilize seized Russian funds.
The bill also includes provisions for congressional oversight and presidential discretion, allowing Trump to adjust sanctions based on diplomatic developments. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated the measure could be brought to the floor before the August recess.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the initiative, calling it “exactly the kind of leverage that can bring peace closer and make sure diplomacy is not empty” in a post on X.
The proposed sanctions package marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, reflecting bipartisan resolve to confront Russia’s aggression and bolster Ukraine’s defense. As Trump prepares to meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the international community watches closely for signs of a new phase in the conflict’s resolution.
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