White House says Trump supports Graham’s Russia sanctions bill
Trump Administration Backs Lindsey Graham's Russia Sanctions Legislation
White House Confirmation Signals Legislative Momentum
White House says Trump supports Graham - A senior White House official has officially confirmed that President Donald Trump is backing the Russia sanctions legislation championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. This endorsement was communicated to reporters on Monday, providing fresh impetus to the congressional effort to advance the bill in Graham's memory following his unexpected passing.
The timing of this confirmation proves particularly significant as Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire has been spearheading a coordinated campaign on Capitol Hill. Her mission involves rallying members of Congress to swiftly pass the proposed legislation, ensuring that Graham's vision for strengthening American foreign policy toward Russia materializes into law.
Pre-Death Agreement Sets Foundation for Passage
Before Graham's sudden death over the weekend, a crucial diplomatic alignment had already been achieved. The South Carolina senator worked alongside Senators Shaheen, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, and Roger Wicker of Mississippi to negotiate with White House representatives. These four lawmakers successfully reached consensus on the textual framework for potential sanctions measures targeting Russian activities.
This pre-existing agreement between the legislative and executive branches provides a solid foundation for the bill's eventual enactment. Rather than requiring renegotiation following Graham's death, the White House can now formally endorse the version that was already under consideration.
Shaheen Highlights Graham's Legacy Through Legislation
Senator Shaheen took to social media to share the encouraging news, emphasizing both the collaborative nature of the effort and its importance for Ukraine. Her statement captured the emotional weight of this moment for Graham's family and colleagues.
"On Friday, Senators Graham, Blumenthal, Wicker and I announced White House support for our Russia sanctions legislation to help finally achieve peace for Ukraine, which Lindsey described as one of his most consequential efforts."
Shaheen continued by connecting the legislative effort to Graham's personal mission and lasting impact on American foreign policy.
"There can be no more fitting memorial to Lindsey, his legacy, or the causes he fought for, than to pass this legislation and realize his long-held dream of an independent and secure Ukraine."
Substantive Sanctions Framework Proposed
The legislation, formally titled the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, introduces a robust economic penalty mechanism. Countries that continue purchasing Russian oil and natural gas would face tariffs reaching five hundred percent on their trade with the United States. This aggressive approach aims to pressure international buyers to reduce their dependence on Russian energy resources.
Graham had expressed considerable confidence in the bill's prospects even while traveling abroad. Speaking from Kyiv during what would become his tenth visit to Ukraine before his death, the senator articulated his optimism about the legislative outcome.
"We've reached an agreement with the White House on a version of the Russian sanctions bill that they will support. It means it's going to become law."
South Carolina Fills Senate Vacancy
In the wake of Graham's passing, South Carolina's political landscape has begun adjusting to the change. Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican, announced on Monday that he would appoint Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, to serve the remainder of her brother's Senate term. This appointment will last through January, providing interim representation for South Carolina in the upper chamber.
Following this temporary arrangement, voters will participate in a special Republican primary election scheduled for August. This contest will determine who will serve the full six-year term in the Senate, ensuring that South Carolina's voice in Congress remains strong in the months ahead.