Trump Backs Sanctions Bill Against Russia Initiated by Graham

US President Donald Trump is ready to support a bipartisan sanctions bill against Russia, initiated by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, according to a White House official cited by CNN.

Trump voiced his support just days after Graham's unexpected death, which is likely to ease the bill's passage. Graham had worked on the document for years, seeking its final approval.

Previously, Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal stated that the Trump administration was ready to back the package. On July 10, they announced an agreement after lengthy negotiations. However, it remained unclear whether Trump personally supported the bill, as he had repeatedly criticized it and insisted on broader powers to impose sanctions unilaterally.

Senate Republican leader John Thune said Monday that the White House had worked closely with Graham on the bill and expressed hope for its successful passage. Thune noted that bipartisan support in the Senate would be needed but he believed they could succeed. According to Thune, in his final days, Graham was most focused on this sanctions package, which will become a significant part of his legacy.

Senator Blumenthal said he plans to discuss completing work on the document with Senate leadership and finding a new Republican co-sponsor following Graham's death.

According to CNN, the bill would allow Trump to impose high tariffs on imports from countries that purchase Russian oil, natural gas, and uranium, aiming to increase economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine.

Lindsey Graham, a longtime Republican senator from South Carolina, died on July 11. On July 10, he was in Ukraine visiting President Volodymyr Zelensky.