United States senators have revealed a list of countries that may be affected by a new sanctions bill regarding Russian energy resources. If the document is passed, countries that continue to purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium, and petroleum products will be subject to sanctions. Among them are China, India, Hungary, and Brazil.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Essence of the Sanctions Bill and Its Support
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, who recently visited Ukraine as part of a bipartisan delegation, emphasized the importance of sanctioning countries that buy energy resources from Russia and thereby finance its military machine. He highlighted that the bill has received broad support among senators from both parties and is in the final stages of refinement before being put to a vote in the Senate.
“We spoke with President (Volodymyr) Zelensky about the sanctions bill. He believes this sanctions law is necessary against those who buy energy resources and fuel Russia’s military machine. Many of my colleagues support the bill; it has bipartisan backing. The vote will happen when the time is right; some details still need to be worked out… This could have a positive impact on Ukraine’s struggle,” said Democratic Senator Blumenthal on February 18.
Blumenthal, along with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, is one of the initiators of this bill. The document not only proposes strengthening sanctions but also the possibility of imposing 500% tariffs on energy imports from countries that cooperate with Russia in this area. It is expected that over 80 out of 100 senators will support the initiative.
Strike Against the “Shadow Fleet” and Voting Prospects
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse specifically emphasized that sanctions should also target the “shadow fleet” — vessels used for illegal operations involving Russian oil. He underscored the importance of tracking such vessels and identifying the individuals behind them.
Additionally, Senator Blumenthal pointed out that Ukraine’s successes on the battlefield debunk the widespread myth of Russia’s superiority in the war: Russian losses are too significant, and Ukraine is regaining control over certain territories. He also expressed hope that the vote on the sanctions bill would take place before the current Senate session concludes.
It is worth noting that US President Donald Trump has already agreed to advance this bill, retaining the right to make the final decision regarding the application of restrictions. Thus, if passed, the sanctions will become an important step in the fight against the sponsors of Russian military aggression.