Senate has adjourned for its August recess without voting on a widely supported bipartisan bill that would impose sweeping new sanctions on Russia, leaving the decision squarely in the hands of President Donald Trump.
The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, co-sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R‑S.C.) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D‑Conn.), had more than 80 senators backing it. The legislation proposed aggressive measures, including tariffs of up to 500% on Russian energy exports and potential penalties on nations continuing to trade with Moscow.
Despite bipartisan momentum, lawmakers left Washington without taking a vote, effectively deferring the next steps to the White House.
Earlier this summer, President Trump issued a 50-day ultimatum to Russia to halt its war in Ukraine or face new tariffs, later shortening that timeline to 10–12 days, with an August 8 deadline. Trump has suggested he could impose duties unilaterally, even on third countries buying Russian oil.
Senators from both parties acknowledged frustration over the delay but said Trump now holds full discretion. “I think he’s going to be very careful… but he is clearly disappointed in Putin,” Sen. Mike Rounds (R‑S.D.) said.
The Senate will not return to session until September, meaning any congressional action on sanctions will wait until then — after the president makes his move.
