Trump Reportedly Urged Sen. Graham To Weaken Russian Sanctions Bill

President Donald Trump is secretly pushing Senator Lindsey Graham to modify a sanctions bill targeting Russia, which could lead to 500% tariffs on China and India. Trump wants the flexibility to negotiate with Moscow and end the Ukraine conflict. The bill would allow the president to choose who is blacklisted and make sanctions less mandatory. The White House argues that foreign policy is the executive branch's responsibility, and Congress cannot restrict the president's actions. The bill has bipartisan support in the Senate, with over 80 cosponsors, but has been delayed to avoid upsetting Trump. Trump has used the bill to threaten Russian President Vladimir Putin, to quickly reach an agreement with Kiev. Advocates believe the bill will force the Kremlin to end the war, as it would make it difficult for Russia to sell its energy products. Despite multiple rounds of sanctions, Russia has continued to boost its arms production capability. The bill could be passed by the Senate this month, with House Speaker Mike Johnson expressing support for the legislation.