US discussing 'hard choices' as Putin obstructs peace, Politico reports

According to the media outlet, signing a minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States is unlikely to soften Putin's resistance to the ideas the US has proposed to end the war.

Sources told Politico that there is still no consensus within the White House on what further steps the US should take to promote peace between Ukraine and Russia.

In particular, the US administration is discussing hard choices, including direct pressure on the Kremlin — something President Donald Trump had avoided.

"More sanctions would be the next turn of the screw. If the president wants to go that route," one of the outlet’s sources noted.

However, it remains unclear whether new sanctions would be enough to influence Putin.

Senator’s proposal on sanctions

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham previously introduced a bill that envisions "bone-crushing" sanctions against Russia.

According to the text of the document, it proposes imposing a 500% tariff on imports from countries that purchase Russian oil, petroleum products, natural gas, or uranium.

Graham stated that the bill is already supported by 72 senators — a majority.