The administration of US President Donald Trump is reportedly attempting to significantly weaken a hardline sanctions bill against Russia currently under consideration in the Senate, raising concerns about Washington’s commitment to a tougher stance on Moscow. The proposed legislation, introduced in April by a bipartisan group of senators, aims to impose severe penalties-including a staggering 500% tariff-on countries that continue to purchase critical commodities such as oil, gas, and uranium from Russia.

According to a June 6 report by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Trump’s aides have “quietly contacted” the office of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the bill’s chief architects, in a bid to soften the bill’s most punitive provisions. The effort reportedly includes changing the bill’s binding language, notably substituting “shall” with “may,” a shift that critics argue would strip the legislation of its enforceability.

Graham, known for his traditionally hawkish views on Russia, co-authored the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal. Describing the sanctions package as “bone-crushing” and “one of the most draconian sanctions bills ever written,” Graham has positioned it as a necessary deterrent to punish not only Russia but also third-party countries that help sustain its war economy. Secondary sanctions-targeting states or companies that do business with Russia-form a key part of the legislation.

Yet, according to multiple sources cited by the WSJ, the Trump administration has expressed concerns that the bill could jeopardize the president’s attempts to thaw US-Russia relations and pave the way for a negotiated end........

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