PARIS (AP) — Senior U.S. senators have expressed serious concerns about the ongoing situation in Ukraine, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is stalling peace negotiations while gearing up for a new military offensive.
Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham and Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal shared their insights in an interview with The Associated Press after meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and surveying areas of Ukraine devastated by Russian bombardments.
During their trip to Paris, where they held discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, the senators emphasized that time is running out to prevent another attack by Russian forces.
Graham and Blumenthal have been vocal about the urgency of passing a comprehensive U.S. sanctions bill aimed at undermining the Kremlin’s war economy, asserting that the next two weeks will be critical for the future of the conflict, which has already caused extensive destruction and displacement in Ukraine.
The proposed sanctions bill, which has garnered significant bipartisan support in the Senate, seeks to impose severe tariffs—up to 500%—on countries that continue to import Russian energy products. This measure specifically targets nations like China and India, which account for a substantial portion of Russia’s energy trade.
Describing the bill as potentially the most severe legislation he has seen, Graham underscored that it would not only pressure Russia but also make a statement against nations that financially support its war efforts.
As peace talks are scheduled to resume in Istanbul, the senators pointed out that Russia’s lack of serious proposals suggests a deliberate strategy to delay, giving Putin time to launch his offensive.
Blumenthal accused Putin of manipulating the situation to extend negotiations while preparing for military action. He stated, “Putin is playing President Trump. He’s taking him for a sucker.”
Graham added, “We saw credible evidence of a summer or early fall invasion, a new offensive by Putin. He’s preparing for more war.”
The two senators are attempting to enlist support for the sanctions bill from the skeptical Trump administration, with Trump expressing uncertainty about endorsing it in recent statements. Graham has indicated that the legislation was crafted with input from Trump’s advisers and believes that the president needs to reconsider the situation.
“By trying to engage Putin — by being friendly and enticing — it’s become painfully clear he’s not interested in ending this war,” Graham remarked.
In their discussions, the senators noted the significant human toll of the conflict, referencing harrowing statistics like the estimated 20,000 children believed to have been forcibly deported to Russia. Graham highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues, framing the situation as one requiring justice rather than merely political negotiation.
Additionally, Blumenthal recounted his emotional experience visiting sites of mass graves, reinforcing the need for decisive action against what he termed as Putin’s brutal aggression.
Both senators warned that failing to address Putin’s ambitions in Ukraine could lead to deeper U.S. involvement in future conflicts and even call NATO’s collective defense obligations into action, potentially putting American troops at risk.
Their meeting with Macron revealed a unified front in terms of Europe’s stance on the crisis, with both senators departing from the discussions feeling optimistic about Europe’s resolve to bolster pressure on Russia. Blumenthal characterized this interaction as a pivotal moment, noting Macron’s alignment with their message advocating for stronger measures against Putin.
Graham expressed confidence that the bipartisan support for the sanctions bill will facilitate swift legislative action. He noted the unusual bipartisan unity surrounding the cause of Ukraine, stating, “There are very few causes that will take 41 Republicans and 41 Democrats and put them on record on a single piece of legislation.”
As military leaders from Ukraine prepare to brief Congress, further developments appear imminent, with a sanctions vote likely on the horizon.
Graham concluded by reflecting on the significance of the upcoming weeks, predicting that by Monday, more information will emerge regarding Russia’s positions and intentions.
“President Trump said we’ll know in two weeks whether he’s being strung along,” Graham said, indicating that the situation remains fluid and contingent on Russia’s actions in the coming days.
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