Edith Hejberg
Blumenthal believes Putin must be shown that continued aggression will only lead to further isolation and economic pain.
US Senator Richard Blumenthal is urging Congress to move quickly on a new sanctions bill targeting Russia, saying Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin “doesn’t deserve more time.” He stressed that any delay would only benefit Moscow, not Ukraine or the US.
‘500% Sanctions, Not 100%’
Blumenthal praised President Donald Trump’s current approach toward Russia but said the measures should be far tougher, “500%” tougher, in his words.
He argued that only overwhelming economic pressure could send a clear message to Putin.
Seizing the Moment in the Senate
The senator believes the political support is already there. With 85 senators reportedly backing the bill, Blumenthal is confident the number could rise to 90 if the vote were called now. He urged colleagues to act while momentum is strong.
Beyond Executive Orders
While Trump has taken executive action, Blumenthal says legislation is essential to solidify the US stance.
Passing a law would lock in measures and signal bipartisan unity between Congress and the White House.
Showing Commitment to Ukraine
According to Blumenthal, passing the sanctions bill would prove the US is serious about its promises to Ukraine. “Now is the time for action,” he said, stressing that the vote would demonstrate America’s resolve in standing with Kyiv.
Sanctions as a Tool to Stop the War
The senator argued that severe sanctions could help bring the war in Ukraine to an end.
He believes Putin must be shown that continued aggression will only lead to further isolation and economic pain.
Trump’s New 10-Day Deadline
On Tuesday, Trump announced a new, much shorter deadline for Russia to end hostilities, just 10 days. The president had previously set a 50-day timeline, which he now says was too generous.
Zelenskyy Welcomes Tougher Stance
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly welcomed Trump’s decision to shorten the deadline.
He called it a sign of stronger US resolve in the face of Russian aggression.
Ukrainian Diplomacy Backs Trump’s Shift
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described Trump’s tighter deadline as a “realistic and firm” position.
Kyiv sees it as an important step toward holding Russia accountable.
A Pivotal Moment for US-Russia Policy
Blumenthal and other lawmakers say the coming days could prove decisive. If Congress passes the sanctions bill swiftly, it would mark one of the strongest US legislative moves against Russia since the invasion began.
