Senate Nears Bipartisan Vote on Broad Russia Sanctions Bill

Bipartisan momentum is building in the U.S. Senate for a sanctions bill targeting countries purchasing Russian oil, with over 80 senators backing the measure and Senate Majority Leader John Thune aiming for a vote before the August recess. The legislation, co-sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, includes provisions giving President Trump broad discretion over the timing and enforcement of sanctions, which appears aimed at securing his support. President Trump, after a failed attempt to broker peace with Russia, has turned sharply against Vladimir Putin, calling his words "meaningless" and signaling he is "very strongly" considering backing the sanctions bill. Senate leaders and House Speaker Mike Johnson have expressed readiness to move forward, emphasizing the need to send a firm message to Putin amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The bill not only targets Russia but also aims to penalize countries continuing trade with Russia, with notable focus on major oil buyers like China and India. Coordination between Congress and the White House is ongoing to finalize the bill’s form and ensure it can pass both chambers promptly.