By Molly Claire Goddard
4:14am PDT, Jun 3, 2025
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Lindsey Graham reportedly shared a major update on the United States' relations with Russia.
According to a
source who was present, on Friday, May 30, the Republican politician announced the Senate would be "moving" on legislation to impose more sanctions on the Kremlin following discussions with Ukrainian President
Volodymyr Zelensky.
Keep reading to learn what Graham said about the potential global action…MORE:
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During a press briefing in Kyiv, Lindsay Graham reportedly revealed the bold political move is underway — allegedly with Donald Trump's support.
"I would expect next week that the Senate will start moving the sanctions bill," the senator said. "There are House members that are ready to move in the House and you'll see congressional action. President Trump said that the next two-week period will be outcome-determined."
The new bill would apply a 500% tariff on Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.
When asked if the commander-in-chief supports the legislation and will sign it, Graham said, "I've never been more optimistic than I am today."
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During a Senate floor speech on Tuesday, May 20, Republican Representative John Barrasso hinted at consequences for Russia backed by Donald Trump.
"Russia faces a stark choice: peace or crippling sanctions," he told his fellow politicians. "President Trump has spoken forcefully of swift, severe consequences if Russia fails to honor a ceasefire."
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After Russian President Vladimir Putin refused to accept a U.S.-backed ceasefire deal with Ukraine, European politicians enacted sanctions against the country.
"Russia is playing a game at the expense of the world, not just the United States. It's clear to almost anyone — Putin is not remotely interested in anything that would lead to peace," Lindsey Graham said during the media conference. "So, there's a card game going on this summer. The first cards are going to be played by the United States Senate and the House."
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On Monday, June 2,
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly called on Donald Trump to help put sanctions against Russia in place as the war between the nations continues.
"If the Istanbul meeting brings nothing, that clearly means strong new sanctions are urgently needed — from the EU's 18th package, and from the United States specifically, the strongest sanctions President Trump promised," he said during a
press conference. "Sanctions should hit Russian energy — especially oil and tankers — price caps, of course, and also Russian banks and the financial sector overall."
