U.S. Senate Seeks Russia Sanctions Before August Recess

The U.S. Senate is poised to pass a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia and its buyers of energy, uranium, and other goods, with hopes to pass it before the August recess. Spearheaded by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, the legislation includes imposing secondary sanctions and a 500% tariff on imports from countries dealing with sanctioned Russian products, aiming to pressure major buyers like China and India. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed optimism about the bill’s passage, noting strong bipartisan support and ongoing coordination with the House and the White House. However, President Donald Trump has sought changes to the bill to increase his control over sanctions enforcement, which has delayed the floor vote despite general Republican openness to the legislation. House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated willingness to consider the bill, reflecting a bipartisan consensus on the need to act against Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. The Senate leadership remains hopeful that the bill will be finalized and voted on shortly, signaling a unified stance to increase pressure on Russia amid the ongoing conflict.