Lindsey Graham Says 72 Lawmakers Back Russia Sanctions Bill

US Senator Lindsey Graham on Wednesday claimed 72 senators support legislation that would impose what he called “bone-crushing” sanctions on Russia and countries supporting Moscow if peace negotiations fail to end the Ukraine conflict.

The South Carolina Republican, a close ally of President Donald Trump, said the proposed measures would include a 500% tariff on imports from countries purchasing Russian oil, gas, and key commodities, according to the draft legislation seen by Bloomberg.

“I think Trump’s the best person to achieve that goal, but these sanctions represent the Senate’s view that we see the primary bad guy as being Russia,” Graham told reporters.

The sanctions would also prohibit US citizens from buying Russian sovereign debt, according to the bill draft.

Graham predicted Putin would eventually need to choose between negotiating with Trump or watching Russia’s economy face severe consequences. “Putin would be making a huge mistake to try to play Trump,” Graham said, describing the legislation as “a tool in President Trump’s toolbox.”

The proposal comes as Washington shifts its diplomatic approach toward the conflict. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce recently stated the US would no longer mediate meetings between the parties, saying they need to develop their own plans to end the war.

Despite campaigning on quickly ending the conflict, Trump has so far avoided imposing new sanctions on Moscow. When Russia launched a major missile attack across Ukraine on April 24, killing 12 civilians, Trump called it “not necessary” and appealed directly to Putin, but outlined no specific consequences.

Putin recently announced a temporary ceasefire from May 8-11 during Victory Day celebrations, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected as a manipulation tactic.

Information for this story was found via Bloomberg, Kyiv Independent, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.