Graham Issues Bold Demand To Trump
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) is turning up the pressure on President Donald Trump to take a tougher stand against China for its role in supporting Russia’s brutal war in Ukraine.
The call comes as Europe has moved aggressively, announcing new sanctions on Chinese energy companies that are helping prop up Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war machine. This marks a major escalation in the economic battle between the West, Russia, and China.
Graham Applauds Europe’s Tough Stance
Graham praised the European Union’s decision, calling it a bold move that mirrors Trump’s recent warning to European leaders.
Last week, Trump urged Europe to impose 50% to 100% tariffs on Chinese goods before the U.S. would take similar action. Graham said the EU’s new crackdown sends a clear message to Beijing and should be a model for the United States to follow.
“The European Union’s move to sanction China’s oil infrastructure is a big step in the right direction,” Graham posted on X.
“I hope President Trump will take equally strong action to hold China accountable for funding Putin’s aggression.”
Trump Balances Pressure With Diplomacy
While Graham is pushing for maximum pressure, President Trump is taking a careful, strategic approach to avoid a direct economic clash with China—at least for now.
On Friday, Trump announced that he had reached a tentative deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping that will allow TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. This agreement delays the enforcement of a law that would have forced TikTok’s Chinese parent company to sell the app or face a nationwide ban.
The fate of TikTok has been one of the most contentious issues in ongoing U.S.-China trade talks. By securing a temporary deal, Trump may be keeping leverage for future negotiations while protecting American users from a sudden shutdown.
Sanctions Package With 500% Tariffs Still on Hold
At the same time, the Trump administration is holding back on a bipartisan sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 500% on countries aiding Russia’s war effort.
China and India are highlighted as major contributors to Moscow’s coffers, fueling Putin’s war machine through trade and financial support. Many lawmakers, including Graham, are eager to see this bill move forward—but Trump appears to be strategically waiting for the right moment.
Trump and Xi Plan High-Stakes Meetings
Following their recent phone call, Trump described his conversation with Xi as “very good.” Both leaders agreed to meet face-to-face in November, with plans for reciprocal visits to each other’s countries next year.
This sets the stage for high-stakes diplomacy, where Trump will attempt to protect American interests, counter China’s support for Russia, and strengthen America’s global leadership.
Bottom Line
- Graham wants Trump to hit China hard for aiding Russia’s war in Ukraine.
- Trump is keeping his options open, balancing pressure with diplomacy.
- The future of TikTok, U.S.-China trade relations, and a massive 500% sanctions package are all on the line.
As tensions rise, Trump’s next moves could reshape the balance of power between the U.S., China, and Russia—and the world will be watching.
Why This Matters for Americans
For millions of Americans, especially those concerned about national security, fair trade, and protecting American jobs, this issue strikes close to home.
- China’s economic rise threatens U.S. industries and workers.
- Russia’s aggression risks global instability.
- Trump’s leadership is critical in protecting American interests abroad.
Stay tuned as this story develops—because the stakes couldn’t be higher.
