Trump Backs Graham-Blumenthal Bill; Threats of 500% Tariffs for Russian Oil Buyers

In a major escalation of economic pressure, President Donald Trump has reportedly “greenlit” the bipartisan Graham-Blumenthal Russia Sanctions Bill. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham confirmed that the President intends to use the legislation to penalize nations that continue to purchase Russian oil, gas, and uranium. The bill authorizes the U.S. to levy tariffs of up to 500% on trading partners—including India, China, and Brazil—aiming to sever the financial lifelines of President Vladimir Putin’s military. This move comes as the Trump administration attempts to force a peace deal to end the nearly four-year-old Ukraine conflict.