Russia sanctions bill faces hurdles in Senate despite renewed push after Graham’s death

Russia Sanctions Bill Faces Hurdles in Senate

Earthguardiansonline.com – Russia sanctions bill faces hurdles in the Senate as lawmakers debate whether to advance the measure before the August recess. Following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, a bipartisan effort to strengthen penalties against Moscow gained momentum. Yet Democratic senators have raised concerns about granting the president broader tariff authority through the legislation. With midterm elections approaching and government funding still unresolved, any senator can request a delay that would block the bill from reaching the floor.

Republican Senator John Kennedy warned CNN that the Senate’s remaining time could be consumed by continuing resolution negotiations. He expressed fear that the chamber might miss opportunities to pass both the Graham sanctions measure and cryptocurrency legislation. “I think we are pissing away our chance to pass the Graham sanctions bill while we have the votes,” Kennedy said. “I think the next two and a half weeks is going to be CR and nothing but CR.” His comments reflect growing anxiety among lawmakers about the tight schedule.

Democratic Concerns Over Tariff Power

Graham announced an agreement with the Trump administration shortly before his death, prompting supporters to urge swift passage. However, several Democrats worry the deal gives too much tariff power to the executive branch. Senator Elizabeth Warren signaled she would not hesitate to slow the legislation if needed. She has long advocated for stronger measures against Russia but wants to ensure the president cannot use the bill as a vehicle for additional tariffs.

“I’ve been saying for a year and a half we need tougher sanctions against Russia. That’s very, very important. But Donald Trump has shown what he will do with broad tariff authority. Heck, he’s shown what he’ll do even if he doesn’t have authority.”

Warren voiced her concerns after hearing testimony from US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. She emphasized that preventing further tariff expansion remains a priority. “It’s important that we not open a door to let Donald Trump do even more with tariffs,” she said. When asked whether she would delay the bill without amendments, Warren confirmed she wants to see improvements before supporting passage.

Key Provisions and Compromises

The legislation imposes penalties on Russian President Vladimir Putin, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and foreign companies backing Russia’s military-industrial complex. It also establishes tariffs of up to one hundred percent on the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. Greer will determine the final rate, while countries importing less than fifteen percent of Russia’s total gas exports receive exemptions if they reduce their reliance on Russian supplies.

Originally, the bill proposed minimum tariffs of five hundred percent with narrow exceptions. After more than fifteen months of negotiations, lawmakers and the administration agreed to lower rates and shift execution authority to Greer rather than the president. Senator Mark Warner echoed concerns about the administration’s tariff powers. “I support Russia sanctions, but I’ve held off, you know, co-sponsoring the legislation until I get more clarity on that,” Warner explained. “It’s amazing that, you know, I’m trying — to get a clear, concise answer on that has been a little bit of a challenge.”

Senator Ron Wyden, ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, reinforced these worries about expanding executive power. He noted that Trump has consistently prioritized tariffs above other policy goals. “I think it would set a very ominous, you know, precedent,” Wyden said. “Donald Trump wants one thing in terms of policy, and that’s tariffs. And I don’t think he’s going to follow through on the sanctions, and I think he’ll be all in with respect to tariffs, and it will set a very dangerous precedent.” His remarks highlight why the Russia sanctions bill faces hurdles even as momentum builds for its passage.