US Senators Warn Putin Preparing Offensive

Two senior U.S. senators, Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is stalling peace talks while preparing a new military offensive in Ukraine. After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron, the senators emphasized that the next two weeks are critical. They are advocating for a bipartisan U.S. sanctions bill that would impose 500% tariffs on countries like China and India that continue to purchase Russian oil, gas, and uranium, aiming to cripple Russia's war economy. The senators expressed concern that Vladimir Putin is 'playing President Trump' by prolonging negotiations to gain more territory. They also highlighted the human toll of the war, citing mass grave sites and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. The senators believe Europe is ready to toughen its stance against Russia, with Emmanuel Macron '100% aligned' with their message. The proposed sanctions bill faces uncertain odds in Washington, particularly without the endorsement of Donald Trump.