US Senator pushes for sweeping Russia sanctions bill

US Senator Richard Blumenthal has expressed optimism that a sweeping sanctions bill targeting Russia could pass the House of Representatives as early as next month. Speaking from Kyiv after meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky, Blumenthal described the legislation as a “sledgehammer” intended to disrupt President Vladimir Putin’s ability to fund the war in Ukraine.

The bill, which has already cleared an initial Senate vote, seeks to sanction high-ranking Russian officials and grant the US President authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, specifically naming China and India. The goal is to significantly reduce the energy revenues Moscow utilizes for its military operations.

While the measure reportedly enjoys strong Republican support, some Democrats have voiced concerns regarding the breadth of authority it grants the US President to impose tariffs, including potential impacts on US allies. Blumenthal noted that the bill includes specific exemptions to protect European allies from these tariffs. Zelensky has reportedly agreed to lobby members of the House to ensure the bill's passage.