In a powerful and uncompromising message, US President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to nations maintaining economic ties with Russia, declaring that any country continuing to conduct business with Moscow will face “very severely sanctioned” consequences. The announcement comes as the White House and Republican lawmakers accelerate efforts to introduce some of the toughest Russia-related legislation seen in years.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump was asked whether Congress should move forward with new measures aimed at intensifying pressure on Russia and President Vladimir Putin. His response signaled full support.
“I hear they’re doing that, and that’s okay with me,” Trump said, confirming that Republicans were already drafting bills imposing sweeping sanctions on countries buying from or selling to Russia. He added that Iran could soon be added to the list, noting, “I suggested it.”
Trump reiterated the severity of the US stance, emphasizing that any country choosing to continue business ties with Russia would face harsh financial consequences.
The administration has already imposed steep tariffs — including a 50 percent duty on India, one of the highest globally — for its ongoing purchases of Russian energy. Lawmakers are now considering even harsher steps.
A bill introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham proposes an unprecedented 500 percent tariff on the secondary purchase or resale of Russian oil. The measure enjoys broad bipartisan support within the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, signaling strong momentum.
Graham, alongside Senator Richard Blumenthal, has also introduced the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, targeting nations that continue to “fund Putin’s barbaric war in Ukraine.” The legislation already has 85 Senate cosponsors, reflecting strong unity in Washington.
In a joint statement earlier this year, Graham and Blumenthal argued that while the Trump administration has taken decisive steps to curb the conflict, decisive global economic pressure remains essential. They pointed to nations like China, India, and Brazil as key purchasers of discounted Russian oil and gas — support they believe strengthens Russia’s war efforts.
According to the senators, the ultimate tool for ending the conflict lies in confronting those economic relationships head-on.
