Katie Britt urges Congress to sanction Russia, add pressure on Iran, China

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen are spearheading a bipartisan push for robust Russia sanctions, a legislative effort that has gained significant traction in Congress. The senators are framing this initiative as both a critical component of American national security and a lasting legacy for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.

A Bipartisan Push

The urgency behind the bill was underscored following a tragic attack in Jordan that killed two U.S. servicemembers on Friday. Speaking during a recent Fox News Sunday appearance, Britt emphasized the interconnected nature of current global threats. "We know the very same people that are funding Russia and funding Putin’s war of aggression are the very same people funding Iran. And front and center in that is China," she stated.

The proposed legislation, which now boasts 62 bipartisan sponsors, seeks to punish nations purchasing Russian energy resources that effectively bankroll Vladimir Putin’s military campaign in Ukraine. The bill would grant the executive branch broader economic authority to impose sanctions on Russian financial institutions, military leadership, and energy infrastructure.

Overcoming Roadblocks

This project was stalled for a long time as it was previously championed by Graham during a period when President Donald Trump was focused on pursuing a peace deal in Ukraine.

Shaheen noted that the collaboration between Russia, Iran, and China poses a direct threat to American interests. Recalling Graham’s advocacy for the bill—which he pushed while traveling for a NATO summit shortly before his death—Shaheen stated that he understood the legislation as an opportunity to exploit Russia’s current vulnerabilities.

Path to the Senate Floor

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has formally called on Senate Majority Leader John Thune to bring the bill to the floor immediately to honor Graham’s memory. Thune expressed optimism about the prospect, stating on CNN that finding a path forward would be an incredible legacy for the late senator, though he acknowledged it will require full cooperation between both parties.

Meanwhile, the legislative landscape remains dynamic. The House previously passed a separate bill focused on providing over $1 billion in reconstruction and security aid to Ukraine, alongside an $8 billion loan program for defense.