Republican senators express frustration with Donald Trump's reluctance to approve a sanctions plan against Russia, despite his calls for Europe to impose tougher measures. The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, proposed by Senator Lindsey Graham, faces delays as Trump sends mixed signals about his stance on Russia. The situation raises questions about Trump's commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Republicans Clash with Trump Over Russia Sanctions
Republicans Clash with Trump Over Russia Sanctions
Donald Trump is urging Europe to impose tougher sanctions on Russia, yet he refuses to approve a plan by Republican senators to do the same.
"I'm tired of Trump and JD and their love affair with everything related to Putin," says one senator.
In April, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, in consultation with Brian Fitzpatrick, a member of the House of Representatives, introduced the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, which includes powerful measures against Russia in both the short and long term. There is no doubt that the law would pass in the Senate, and by July, they believed it would soon become a reality. However, President Donald Trump has yet to give his approval—something a president typically does not need to do.
Now, several senators are growing weary and questioning whether Donald Trump is serious about helping Ukraine. A senator, who chooses to remain anonymous to speak candidly, comments on Vladimir Putin's visit to Alaska, where he was welcomed with a red carpet and all, and JD Vance's subsequent statements defending Putin.
"I'm tired of Trump and JD and their love affair with everything related to Putin," the senator tells The Hill.
The senator also mentions the recent record-breaking drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, suggesting it is a clear sign that Putin is not worried about how the American leadership will react.
"They're just testing how much we will bend. It makes me sick."
Lindsey Graham Hopeful
Another Republican senator notes that Donald Trump has repeatedly raised his voice against Russia and Putin—only to backtrack and soften his rhetoric again.
"He sends mixed messages about Russia. To say the least," says the senator.
Over the weekend, Trump toughened his stance again in his statements, urging Europe to take the first step—and at least stop buying oil from Russia.
"I am ready to impose major sanctions on Russia when all NATO countries have agreed to, and begun, doing the same—and when all NATO countries STOP BUYING OIL FROM RUSSIA," he wrote on Truth Social.
Lindsey Graham became more hopeful again, something he has been in phases, after Trump's statement.
"Sanctions and tariffs, along with the sale of advanced American weapons to Ukraine, are key to bringing Putin to the negotiating table for a fair and honorable peace," he says.