In brief
U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune announces a looming Senate vote on a bipartisan bill targeting countries purchasing Russian oil, aimed at increasing pressure on Vladimir Putin amid the Ukraine conflict. With Trump signaling possible support, the bill, backed by over 80 senators, includes provisions offering the President flexibility in sanction enforcement.
The push for sanctions against countries buying Russian oil is gaining traction on Capitol Hill, with a Senate vote potentially happening this month. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a leading Republican, noted the bipartisan legislation aims to increase pressure on President Vladimir Putin as his conflict with Ukraine intensifies. The bill, sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), boasts 83 bipartisan supporters.The changes introduced to cater to President Trump, who expressed strong interest in the bill, suggest a path towards passing the sanctions. The proposal includes a waiver for the president, granting him some discretion over when and how to execute these sanctions, alongside a potential grace period to assist allies that engage with Russia while aiding Ukraine.Thune highlighted the progress made, indicating the bill could be voted upon before the Senate recess on August 1. Both Graham and Blumenthal are reportedly making concessions to accommodate Trump's preferences for how sanctions could be applied, aiming for a resolution that could bolster Trump’s negotiating stance while addressing the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
