US President Donald Trump has expressed openness to backing a Senate-sanctioned bill that could impose stringent measures against Russia, as reported by Politico. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Senator Lindsey Graham, includes a 500% tariff on nations trading with Moscow, aiming to curtail Russia’s economic influence. The bill grants the president limited waiver authority, although Trump has indicated his preference for complete autonomy in sanction decisions.
According to a senior administration official cited by Politico, the administration is not seeking congressional micromanagement on foreign policy, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive waiver mechanism. The Senate is set to vote on the draft this month, with Graham asserting that the bill provides Trump with maximum leverage. The push for tougher sanctions has gained momentum as Trump intensifies criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, following stalled negotiations between Moscow and Kiev.