Senate begins debate on Graham's 'bone-crushing sanctions' bill against Russia
Photo: Chuck Schumer (GettyImages)
The US Senate has begun debating a sweeping sanctions package introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham targeting Russia and Iran. A final vote could take place as early as August 7, according to journalist Alex Raufoglu.
US Senate begins debate on sanctions against Russia and Iran
The Senate has opened consideration of a broad sanctions package proposed by Senator Lindsey Graham to increase pressure on Russia and Iran. Lawmakers could hold a final vote on the measure as early as today.
Schumer warns of growing threat
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said Russian President Vladimir Putin continues testing the West’s resolve to counter potential Russian threats to NATO.
Referring to new intelligence assessments, Schumer stressed that the bipartisan bill is intended to demonstrate the United States' long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine.
"Thugs like Putin don't care about what we say, only about what we do," Schumer said.
Debate on the sanctions package is ongoing. If the bill is brought to a vote, the Senate could approve it in the near future.
What is known about Graham's "bone-crushing sanctions" bill
The United States could approve another package of tough sanctions against Russia as early as September 2026. According to Ukrainian officials, the proposed US measures would be significantly tougher than the European Union's sanctions.
The package is based on a bill previously introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham. Ukrainian officials expect US legislators to approve the bill in early autumn.
A possible new wave of sanctions
Washington's decision is expected to have a multiplier effect, influencing the future sanctions policies of Ukraine's allies.
In particular, the adoption of the US package could pave the way for additional measures by Kyiv's international partners, including:
- approval of the EU's 22nd sanctions package;
- tighter coordinated restrictions by the G7 countries;
- additional sanctions imposed by other nations supporting Ukraine.
Ukraine therefore views a potential US decision as a key factor that could significantly increase international pressure on Russia through sanctions in the coming months.
The European Union expanded its sanctions against Russia in response to intensified attacks on Ukraine, adding five more individuals to its sanctions list over their involvement in actions targeting Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure.
