Graham Signals Senate Action If Trump Fails

Senator Lindsey Graham has indicated a willingness for the Senate to pursue sanctions against Russia independently of any direction from former President Donald Trump, even as Trump reportedly seeks a negotiated end to the conflict in Ukraine. In a letter to the Wall Street Journal, Graham responded to the paper’s call for congressional action to restrict Russia’s war financing.

Graham framed the situation as a matter of restoring American leadership on the global stage, arguing that the withdrawal from Afghanistan damaged U.S. credibility and emboldened aggressors. He asserted that decisive action regarding the Russia-Ukraine war could reverse this trend, and that Trump is uniquely positioned to restore America’s reputation. However, Graham emphasized that a peaceful resolution requires cooperation from Russia, which he claims has offered only excuses.

According to Graham, Trump has requested a detailed proposal from Vladimir Putin outlining conditions for a ceasefire. The Senator stated the Senate is prepared to act regardless of Russia’s response, with a bipartisan sanctions bill already garnering significant support – 82 co-sponsors as of the letter’s writing.

The proposed legislation aims to severely restrict Russian trade by imposing a 500% tariff on any nation purchasing Russian energy products. Graham believes cutting off Russia’s revenue streams – particularly from countries like China and India – would cripple its war effort. He referenced comments from Senator Thune suggesting the Senate will proceed with sanctions if Putin doesn’t engage in good faith.

While expressing hope for a peaceful outcome, Graham adopted a notably harsh tone towards Putin, referring to him as a “thug” and suggesting continued aggression is the most likely scenario. This stance, coupled with the willingness to act independently of the former president, signals a growing impatience within the Senate regarding the ongoing conflict and a determination to hold Russia accountable, even if it means diverging from Trump’s approach to diplomacy. The situation presents a complex dynamic, balancing the desire for a negotiated settlement with the need to exert pressure on Russia and demonstrate American resolve.