Senate Nears Veto-Proof Russia Sanctions Amid Trump Reluctance

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed increasing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin following intensified Russian strikes on Ukraine, including attacks on civilian areas, but has yet to commit to imposing tougher sanctions. Despite Trump's sharper rhetoric criticizing Putin's actions and hinting at new sanctions, multiple sources report no decisive administration action has been taken yet. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans, alongside some Democrats, are pushing for bipartisan legislation to impose stricter economic penalties on Russia, including punitive tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, aiming to pressure Moscow into a ceasefire. This legislative effort enjoys strong support, with over 80 senators backing a bill that could override a presidential veto, signaling a potential congressional challenge to Trump’s diplomatic approach. Trump continues to advocate for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, but his reluctance to join new sanctions and provide additional support to Ukraine has drawn criticism from former officials and lawmakers calling for more decisive measures. The political dynamics reveal a growing divide between the White House’s cautious diplomacy and Congress’s readiness to escalate pressure on Russia through sanctions.