US Lawmakers Draft Bill to Tighten Sanctions on Russia After Sumy Deadly Attack

Democratic members of the US Congress have drafted a bill to ramp up support for Ukraine and impose tougher sanctions on Russia, Reuters reported Tuesday, citing congressional sources.

The legislation, co-authored by Rep. Greg Meeks of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, proposes expanded security assistance for Ukraine, including direct loans, military financing, and support for reconstruction efforts. It also calls for the appointment of a special coordinator to oversee Ukraine’s recovery.

The bill targets Russia with stricter sanctions and export controls, particularly against its financial institutions and oil and mining sectors.

Though not yet formally introduced in the House of Representatives, the proposal is seen as an effort to pressure President Donald Trump’s administration to adopt a more decisive stance in support of Ukraine.

Sources told Reuters that work on the bill gained urgency following Sunday’s Russian missile strike on the heart of the Ukrainian city of Sumy, which killed 35 civilians and injured 120 more.

Even if the measure fails to pass the Republican-controlled House in full, individual provisions could still be incorporated into a broader aid package for Ukraine, according to congressional insiders.

Earlier this month, lawmakers from both parties in the Senate proposed a separate bill that would trigger harsher sanctions  --  including 500% tariffs on nations purchasing Russian oil – if Moscow refuses to engage in peace talks. As of April 15, the Senate had not taken up the proposal.

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