WASHINGTON DC – Leading US senators from both sides of the aisle are condemning Russia’s deadly overnight attack on Kyiv, accusing President Vladimir Putin of rejecting peace and deliberately escalating the conflict.
The missile and drone strikes hit civilian buildings and the EU delegation headquarters, killing at least 23 and injuring dozens, including children.
Bipartisan Fury
The strikes drew a rare, unified outcry from Capitol Hill.
“I am appalled by Russia’s deadly strikes on civilians,” said Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) on a social media post, adding that “Putin is showing no interest in ending this war.”
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) said the attack “makes clear” that Putin “continues to reject peace,” urging the US and its allies to “remain steadfast in supporting Ukraine.”
For some, the attacks highlighted a perceived failure of recent diplomatic efforts. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote on social media, “I’m embarrassed & ashamed—but, even more, heartbroken. Putin mocks & manipulates [the President]…People are dying.”
Blumenthal, along with Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), is pushing for the “Graham-Blumenthal Sanctions bill” to impose “bone-crushing” economic measures on countries supporting Russia.Graham singled out nations buying Russian oil.
“How do you feel right now that your purchases have resulted in innocent civilians, including children, being killed?” he asked, warning countries like India and China that they too would “soon” face the costs of their support.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) also took aim at the administration’s recent diplomacy.
“So much for The Art of the Deal,” he wrote, stating that “[the President] is getting conned and played by Putin.“
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) focused his criticism on Putin, stating that while the American President “seeks peace,” Putin “murders innocents.”
He called for “maximum sanctions” and “strong security guarantees” for Ukraine.
White House Stance Draws European Ire
While senators voiced outrage, the administration’s response has been far more muted.
As Kyiv Post reported earlier, the White House has publicly downplayed the attack as an expected part of the war.
President Donald Trump’s aides, including spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated the president was “not happy” but also “not surprised,” and urged both sides to de-escalate.
This response has angered European allies, who view the assault as a serious escalation.
Americans See No End in Sight
The contrast in tone between Congress and the White House reflects a deep-seated pessimism among Americans.
The latest Gallup poll shows that two-thirds of US adults are pessimistic that a peace deal can be reached.The survey found that 87 percent are worried Russia would violate an agreement, and 73 percent are concerned it would be too favorable to Russia.
This widespread distrust, shared across the political spectrum, suggests the Kremlin’s latest strikes have only hardened public opinion against a negotiated settlement.