2 US senators push for advancement of Russia sanctions bill

WASHINGTON

US senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal reiterated their demand Wednesday for their bipartisan Russia sanctions bill to advance.

"Right step—stopping India’s blood-money profits at Ukraine’s expense. Now, pass the Graham-Blumenthal Russia Sanctions Bill for bone-crushing steps against China, Brazil & others also buying Russian oil & gas," Blumenthal wrote on X.

His remarks came after President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday imposing an additional 25% tariff on India in response to its continued purchase of Russian oil.

Graham and Blumenthal introduced the bill April 1 that would impose a 500% tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.

Graham appreciated Trump's decision to put the additional tariff on India for purchasing Russian oil.

"Well done, Mr. President. I believe you, above all others, possess the ability to end this war justly and in a fashion that prevents future conflict.

"Congress — with strong bipartisan support — stands ready to help through our Russia sanctions and tariffs legislation, which has 85 Senate cosponsors," Graham, a vocal critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, wrote on X.

Trump said his special envoy Steve Witkoff had a "highly productive" meeting with Putin on Wednesday.

"Great progress was made!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Witkoff arrived in Moscow earlier Wednesday in his fifth visit to Russia since the start of the year. He last met Putin on April 25.

The visit came two days before Trump's 10-day deadline for Russia to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.

Yuri Ushakov, a top aide to Putin, said the meeting was "useful and constructive.”