Lindsey Graham’s Warning To America’s Enemies
The U.S. Senate is gearing up for a bold new move to cripple Putin’s war machine—and this time, it’s not just Russia in the hot seat. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) confirmed Tuesday that a sweeping sanctions bill is on the way, taking direct aim at China, India, and other nations fueling Russia’s aggression by buying up its energy.
“President Trump is absolutely right—Putin is playing games with the world,” Graham wrote on X. “This bill hits back hard. It targets not only Russia but also the countries enabling Putin’s brutality by funding his regime through oil and gas purchases.”
The legislation, which already has over 80 Senate co-sponsors, includes a powerful presidential waiver, allowing President Trump to apply sanctions with maximum flexibility. This means Trump holds the ultimate leverage against foreign nations cozying up to Moscow.
💥 Key Feature: 500% Tariff on Russian Energy Imports
The proposed bill imposes a staggering 500% tariff on imports from any nation that continues buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium—an unmistakable shot at Beijing and New Delhi.
Graham, a longtime national security hawk, made it clear: “It’s time to change the game. No more free passes for countries bankrolling Putin’s military.”
At a Cabinet meeting Tuesday, Trump didn’t mince words about the Russian dictator: “This is a war that never should have happened. Putin talks nice, but it’s all nonsense. People are dying. It has to stop.”
🚨 Trump Signals Support
When asked by reporters if he’s on board with the legislation, Trump said he is “looking at” the proposal and has remained in close contact with Graham throughout its development. Trump’s backing would all but guarantee momentum.
🛡️ Protecting Allies Who Stand with Ukraine
While the bill brings the heat to Russia’s biggest customers, Graham is considering carveouts for European allies who have reduced their energy ties with Russia and shown strong support for Ukraine.
“Some of our allies have stepped up big,” Graham said. “They deserve a carveout. We want to incentivize countries to help Ukraine, not punish the good actors.”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) confirmed that the GOP leadership is fully engaged and expects more details later this week. “There’s a lot of interest in getting this done,” he said.
🪖 Trump Greenlights More Defensive Weapons to Ukraine
In a related move, the Pentagon has resumed shipments of defensive U.S. weapons to Ukraine—just days after pausing over inventory concerns. Trump confirmed the action Monday: “They’re under heavy attack. We’re going to send more. Mostly defensive weapons, but we need to help them survive.”
The Defense Department echoed the message Monday night, saying that America will continue supporting Ukraine while reviewing stockpiles.
☁️ Trump Frustrated with Putin’s Stonewalling
After speaking with Putin last week, Trump expressed deep disappointment: “There’s been no progress. He’s not looking to stop.” Trump also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling the talk “very important and fruitful.”
According to Zelensky, both leaders agreed on one urgent priority: strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses against relentless Russian attacks.
