Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) revealed that the measure could be voted on as early as this month, as lawmakers aim to leverage President Trump's potential support to increase diplomatic pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. With 83 sponsors backing the bill, Thune indicated that "substantial progress" had been achieved in bipartisan discussions.
To facilitate Trump's endorsement, modifications are underway to the legislation, which may include executive waivers that grant him discretion regarding the enforcement of associated financial penalties. Discussions among senators also revolve around a grace period for countries that engage in trade with Russia while supporting Ukraine, to prevent the immediate imposition of sanctions.
At a recent cabinet meeting, Trump hinted at favorable considerations towards the proposed amendments, expressing a desire for considerable autonomy in executing the sanctions, calling it a decision that should be "totally at my option." With Congress heading for a summer recess by early August, lawmakers are eager to finalize this measure to bolster efforts in supporting Ukraine and pressing against the ongoing Russian military aggression.
To facilitate Trump's endorsement, modifications are underway to the legislation, which may include executive waivers that grant him discretion regarding the enforcement of associated financial penalties. Discussions among senators also revolve around a grace period for countries that engage in trade with Russia while supporting Ukraine, to prevent the immediate imposition of sanctions.
At a recent cabinet meeting, Trump hinted at favorable considerations towards the proposed amendments, expressing a desire for considerable autonomy in executing the sanctions, calling it a decision that should be "totally at my option." With Congress heading for a summer recess by early August, lawmakers are eager to finalize this measure to bolster efforts in supporting Ukraine and pressing against the ongoing Russian military aggression.
