Trump Urges Congress to Pass Secondary Russia Sanctions Bill

President Donald Trump signaled his intent to sign a long-delayed Russia sanctions package, privately urging lawmakers to advance legislation that targets nations trading in Russian oil, uranium, and gas. The bipartisan bill, sponsored by Senator Lindsey Graham and supported by over 80 Senate cosponsors, would allow the U.S. government to levy minimum tariffs of 500% on goods and services from trading partners such as China and India to cut off revenues financing Russia's war in Ukraine.

Trump instructed Senate Majority Leader John Thune to move the bill forward during a meeting on Sunday. While the White House signaled its approval, Thune noted that the House must act first and expressed uncertainty regarding passage before the end of the year. The president's support remains conditional on the inclusion of language that preserves his ultimate decision-making authority over the sanctions.

This legislative push follows a period where Trump favored tariffs over sanctions, including a 25% tariff on Indian imports in August. The new measure may also include additional provisions targeting Iran and is described by Thune as a tool for achieving a peaceful resolution between Russia and Ukraine.