Key facts
- Senator Richard Blumenthal urged the House of Representatives to approve Russia sanctions legislation.
- The bill would impose tariffs of up to 100% on the world's five largest buyers of Russian energy.
- The Senate overwhelmingly backed the legislation on August 7.
- The measure has been stalled in Congress since April 2025.
- President Donald Trump supports the legislation as a way to honor Senator Lindsey Graham.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal has called for immediate congressional approval of sweeping sanctions legislation targeting Russia, describing the situation as a "moment of extreme urgency." Speaking to CBS News on August 30, Blumenthal urged his colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass the bill, which aims to pressure Moscow economically and support Ukraine's defense.
The legislation, which passed the Senate with overwhelming support on August 7, proposes imposing tariffs of up to 100% on the world's five largest buyers of Russian energy. This measure has been stalled in Congress since April 2025, with its passage in the House remaining uncertain.
Blumenthal, a strong advocate for Ukraine, believes the bill is crucial as Russian President Vladimir Putin may attempt to escalate the conflict, and also to capitalize on Russia's current economic vulnerabilities. He expressed optimism about the bill's chances in the House, noting that he had encouraged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to meet with U.S. representatives, similar to his engagements with senators prior to the Senate vote.
The revised bill is the result of negotiations between the White House and the late Senator Lindsey Graham. Graham had reportedly secured the Trump administration's support for the proposal shortly before his death on July 11. U.S. officials indicate that President Donald Trump backs the legislation, partly as a tribute to Graham, a close ally.