Senator Lindsey Graham (R‑SC) said President Trump is preparing a major offensive on Russia, targeting frozen assets and ramping up weapons support for Ukraine. Graham urged Americans to “stay tuned” for an imminent announcement on sanctions, asset seizures, and diplomatic measures aimed at compelling Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table.
Graham spoke of a bipartisan bill—the Sanctioning Russia Act—empowering the president to impose punitive tariffs (up to 500%) on nations like China, India, and Brazil for aiding Russia’s war machine. He called it a “literal sledgehammer” against Putin’s economic allies.
Further, the plan would authorize weapon transfers to Ukraine via NATO, circumventing past restrictions. European partners would see enhanced support as part of this strategic shift.
This measure follows Trump’s sharp rebuke of Putin, whom he called “very nice … but meaningless,” and aligns with growing GOP consensus for aggressive action. The Trump administration is ready to take decisive steps, though Graham emphasized it is “only one negotiator”—the president—who must wield these tools effectively.
