Trump Nears Approval of Russia Sanctions Bill with Lifting Authority Demand

President Donald Trump is preparing to sign a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine, but he insists on retaining exclusive authority to decide on the implementation and potential lifting of sanctions without Congressional interference. The bill, supported by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, includes measures such as a 500% tariff on countries purchasing Russian oil and uranium, aiming to pressure Russia's economic partners like China and India. Trump has expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who he says has rejected US diplomatic efforts and made him appear ineffective in negotiations. The Trump administration emphasizes the need for full waiver authority to avoid micromanagement of foreign policy decisions by Congress. While there is broad Congressional support for the sanctions, many Republicans await Trump's explicit approval before fully endorsing the bill, which is expected to be considered by the Senate by the end of July. The potential for amended legislation granting the president more control reflects an effort to maintain flexibility for possible diplomatic breakthroughs with Russia amid ongoing conflict.