(Image source from: AP)
US President Donald Trump has given the go-ahead for the bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill, which may target countries like India, China, and Brazil for buying Russian oil, according to Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who is known for his strong defense views. If the bill becomes law, it would allow the President to impose tariffs as high as 500 percent on countries that knowingly buy Russian oil or uranium, which "supports Russian President Vladimir Putin's war efforts. " The tough sanctions are designed to severely weaken Russia’s economy while the Trump administration seeks to negotiate peace to end the conflict that started with Russia's attack on Ukraine. Graham mentioned that he spoke with Trump at the White House on Wednesday, during which the President expressed his backing for the bill that has been in development for several months. A White House official also confirmed this to the Associated Press.
"This timing is good, as Ukraine is making moves for peace while Putin continues to make threats, harming innocent people," Graham stated. He indicated that a vote could happen as soon as next week, but it is uncertain whether that will actually occur. Next week, the Senate plans to address a reduced government funding package that the House is considering if that body approves it. The following week, the Senate will take a break in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The bill, primarily written by Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, would empower the government to impose tariffs and additional sanctions of up to 500 percent on countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other goods. This action aims to limit the funding for much of Russia’s military activities. The White House had previously requested some changes and flexibility for Trump regarding the sanctions, but it is not clear if any adjustments were made. The legislation has numerous co-sponsors in the Senate along with a similar bill in the House, prepared by Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick.
The Trump administration is working to finalize a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine, which has lasted almost four years, with special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, serving as the main U. S. negotiators.
