Recent Russia sanctions bill ‘on hold’ due to Trump’s outlook

(MENAFN) The push in the US Senate for tougher sanctions on Russia, led by Senator Lindsey Graham, has hit a pause due to President Donald Trump’s reluctance, Bloomberg reported. The proposed legislation, described as “bone crushing,” would impose a 500% tariff on countries purchasing Russian energy, uranium, and other key commodities. Despite having over 80 Senate co-sponsors—enough to override a presidential veto—lawmakers remain cautious about confronting Trump directly.

Earlier this week, Trump revealed he had not reviewed the bill and would consider sanctions only at the “right time,” effectively delaying efforts to advance the measure this month. Graham had aimed to pass the bill before the upcoming G7 summit in June, but Bloomberg says the initiative is now “on hold.”

Graham stated on X that he had worked closely with the White House from the start and that the bill’s purpose is to provide Trump with additional tools to address Russia. His Democratic co-sponsor Richard Blumenthal added that they are trying to make the legislation more acceptable to the administration.

Trump told reporters he has a “deadline” in mind and will decide on sanctions depending on whether peace talks between Moscow and Kiev fail. He indicated a willingness to sanction both Russia and Ukraine. Trump also suggested it might be wiser to let the conflict continue for some time before intervening.

The president expressed concern over recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia’s nuclear-capable bombers, warning that these actions could provoke Moscow to escalate the conflict. Meanwhile, Russia accuses Kiev of intensifying attacks to sabotage US-backed peace negotiations and claims Trump is receiving filtered information from parties advocating for stronger US support for Ukraine.

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