Trump has the green light to do what he wants.
In a major shift, Senate Republicans have stepped back, choosing not to advance a sweeping sanctions bill against Russia—effectively handing President Trump full authority to decide how to punish Vladimir Putin if the war in Ukraine continues.
Instead of pushing legislation before the August recess, Republican lawmakers are giving Trump the tools and the trust to act decisively. And he’s already making bold moves on the world stage.
“We have about eight days… We’re going to put sanctions,” Trump told reporters.
President Trump has issued a clear deadline: August 8. If Putin doesn’t stop the violence, countries still buying Russian oil—like India—could face crippling tariffs. He’s already slapped a 25% tariff on Indian oil imports, sending a clear message to Moscow and its allies.
This is just a preview of what Trump could do. Senate legislation had proposed tariffs up to 500%—but now it’s Trump who holds all the cards.
🔥 Trump Takes Charge While Democrats Doubt
Despite growing international tension, Senate Democrats remain skeptical Trump will follow through. But his recent actions speak louder than their doubts.
Trump has ordered U.S. nuclear submarines into strategic positions following nuclear threats from Dmitry Medvedev, a top Russian official.
“Words carry weight and can sometimes spark unexpected outcomes,” Trump cautioned on Truth Social. “I’m hopeful this won’t be one of those moments.”
💬 Trump’s Peace Envoy Heads to Russia
Trump also announced that Steve Witkoff, his special peace envoy, will travel to Russia shortly—after a stop in Israel. His administration is working quietly but forcefully to push for a ceasefire.
“Russia’s attacks are disgusting,” Trump said. “We’re putting serious pressure on them.”
While acknowledging that sanctions may not faze Putin, Trump is determined to act:
“I know better than anybody about sanctions and tariffs… But we’re going to do it.”
💥 India Responds—Russian Oil Imports Drop
Trump’s economic pressure is already showing results. India has begun reducing imports of Russian crude in response to the new tariffs, which take effect August 7.
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) admitted, “Clearly, India was paying attention. This is real pressure.”
Even Democrat Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.)—no friend of Trump—conceded that Trump’s strategy is moving the needle.
“We proposed 500%. If he hits 100%, I could live with that,” Blumenthal said. “What matters is stopping Russia’s war machine.”
💡 GOP Senators: Trump Holds the Leverage
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) applauded Trump for adopting a hardline strategy, saying he could act with or without congressional backing.
“The bill gives him leverage. But he’s got the power now—stay tuned,” Graham said.
While some GOP senators regret missing a chance to vote on their sanctions package, most agree that Trump having flexibility is the best option.
“There’s no limit to what we should do to stop Russia,” said Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).
“Let’s make sure Ukraine is armed and Russia feels it economically.”
Others, like Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Sen. John Curtis (R-Utah), say having a ready-to-pass bill on standby only adds to Trump’s leverage—giving him options without tying his hands.
⚠️ Global Energy Impact Looms
Experts warn that targeting Russia’s energy trade partners—like China, India, and Brazil—could shake global markets. But Trump’s America First approach has always put U.S. national security and energy independence first.
A recent report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies emphasized the need to cut off Russia’s oil revenue to restrict its military operations. Trump appears to be doing just that.
🏁 Conclusion: Trump Now Leads the Charge
With the Senate stepping aside, President Trump has emerged as the sole power broker in dealing with Russia. His bold leadership, economic pressure, and willingness to confront global threats are reshaping U.S. foreign policy—on his terms.
“I think it gives [Trump] more leverage,” said Sen. Daines. “It’s a smart strategy.”
As the August 8 deadline approaches, all eyes are now on Trump—and the world is watching.
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