Trump Backs Bipartisan Sanctions Bill Targeting Nations Trading With Russia

U.S. President Donald Trump has agreed to allow a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting countries that continue to do business with Russia to advance in Congress, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said on Wednesday. Graham confirmed that Trump had “greenlit” the legislation following a meeting between the two, clearing the way for a possible vote as early as next week.

The bill, drafted by a coalition of Republicans and Democrats, would impose sanctions on nations that purchase Russian energy or maintain significant economic ties with Moscow, citing Russia’s failure to pursue a peace settlement in its ongoing war against Ukraine, which began with the 2022 invasion. Graham said the legislation is designed to penalize countries “fueling Putin’s war machine” by buying discounted Russian oil, identifying China, India and Brazil among potential targets.

Congressional leaders had previously delayed a vote as Trump favored tariffs over sanctions, particularly on imports from India, one of the largest buyers of Russian oil after China. While U.S. officials indicated in November that Trump would sign the bill if passed, they said he would seek language ensuring presidential control over sanction decisions. The move comes as diplomatic efforts to secure a peace deal in Ukraine intensify, though Moscow has yet to signal readiness to accept concessions or commit to the security guarantees proposed by Kyiv’s allies.

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