Republican Senators Urge Trump To Embrace New Russia Sanctions Amid Ukraine Conflict

Amid escalating Russian attacks in Ukraine, pressure is mounting within the U.S. government for President Donald Trump to adopt new sanctions against Russia, despite his previous reluctance and hope to negotiate directly with Vladimir Putin. A bipartisan Senate bill, backed by over 80 senators including Republicans Lindsey Graham and Chuck Grassley, proposes strong primary and secondary sanctions and a 500% tariff on goods from countries buying Russian oil, aiming to decisively pressure Moscow. Trump has delayed imposing new sanctions, citing concerns that such measures could derail potential ceasefire talks, but recent events have increased his frustration with Putin and led to serious consideration of sanctions. Some advisers see the legislative approach as allowing Trump to implement sanctions while maintaining plausible deniability to preserve communication with Russia. The growing hawkish sentiment in the Senate contrasts with Trump's more conciliatory stance, signaling a potential showdown over U.S. policy toward Russia. Congressional Republicans emphasize that sanctions must be strong enough to signal a clear message to Putin that continued aggression will not be tolerated.