US Senate Committee Advances Three Bills Increasing Pressure on Russia, China Over Ukraine War

The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved three bipartisan bills aimed at increasing pressure on Russia for its war on Ukraine. These bills include updating a law to transfer frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, sanctioning Chinese entities aiding Russia's military, and designating Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism due to the abduction of nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children. The legislative push coincides with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's visit to Washington and meetings with President Trump and lawmakers, signaling Congress's readiness for stronger action against Moscow. Senators, including Jeanne Shaheen and James Risch, emphasized the importance of Congress stepping up as the White House appears reluctant to act decisively. However, President Trump has withheld new financial support for Ukraine and has expressed a desire for diplomatic engagement with Russia, creating uncertainty about the bills' future progress. Despite this, the committee's actions reflect sustained bipartisan support for Ukraine amid ongoing complexities in U.S.-Russia relations.