US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has confirmed that the sanctions bill he introduced will not impose mandatory measures against Russia – the final decision will rest with the US president.

Source:ABC News, as reported by European Pravda

Details: In an interview with ABC News, Graham said the bill, aimed at increasing pressure on Russia over its refusal to enter peace talks with Ukraine, has Donald Trump’s backing and will be passed in July.

However, the senator repeatedly emphasised that the bill includes a waiver provision that leaves the imposition of sanctions at the president’s discretion.

Quote from Graham: "There’s a waiver in the bill: Mr President [Trump – ed.], you're in charge whether or not it's to be implemented. But we will give President Trump a tool in the toolbox he does not have today."

The senator added that how sanctions are applied in the future will depend entirely on the president, "but we are trying to get Putin at the table".

Background: 

• Earlier in June, The Wall Street Journal reported that the demand to leave the final decision on sanctions to Trump came directly from the White House.
• Senators Lindsey Graham (Republican) and Richard Blumenthal (Democrat), supported by 82 co-sponsors, introduced the bill to impose economic sanctions on Russia for obstructing ceasefire efforts in its war of aggression against Ukraine, particularly by imposing a 500% tariff on goods imported from countries that purchase Russian oil.
• The bill also has received support in the House of Representatives, though no legislative steps have been taken since it was introduced this spring. Trump has publicly stated he would impose new sanctions against Russia "if necessary".

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon !