Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said lawmakers are ready to impose tougher sanctions on Russia if the Kremlin refuses to pursue an “honorable, just and enduring” peace with Ukraine.
In a post on X, Graham thanked US President Donald Trump and his administration for “working diligently to end the war in Ukraine” calling Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion “barbaric.”
Graham announced he had introduced a bipartisan bill to expand sanctions against Russia, with nearly 60 co-sponsors already on board. The legislation would impose “secondary tariffs” on any country that purchases Russian oil, gas, uranium, or other key goods.
“The Senate stands ready to move in this direction and will do so overwhelmingly if Russia does not embrace an honorable, just and enduring peace.” Graham wrote.
Graham’s comments came alongside a screenshot of a Truth Social post by President Donald Trump. In the post, Trump questioned whether Putin is truly interested in ending the war, suggesting the Kremlin leader might need to face tougher measures like “banking” penalties or “secondary sanctions.”
The pressure for new sanctions follows a series of legislative moves in Congress. Earlier this month, Graham and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., introduced a bill targeting Russian industries with severe economic penalties if Moscow rejects a peace agreement.
Meanwhile, House Democrats unveiled a comprehensive Ukraine support package that includes increased sanctions on Russian financial institutions, energy companies, and senior officials. The legislation also provides military aid, direct loans, and funds for Ukraine’s reconstruction, including the appointment of a special coordinator.