Zelenskyy's Senate plea revives Russia sanctions push, but House path unclear
Zelenskyy's direct appeal to senators helped advance a Russia sanctions package, though its future in the House remains uncertain amid tariff concerns.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an urgent, personal appeal to U.S. lawmakers this week, helping to break a legislative logjam on a major Russia sanctions package. The closed-door meeting at the Capitol, held hours after the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham, drew roughly half the Senate and several House members, who listened as Zelenskyy detailed Ukraine's military strategy and its immediate needs.
According to lawmakers present, Zelenskyy stressed the importance of passing the sanctions legislation that night, saying both troops and civilians needed the morale boost. Senator Jeanne Shaheen recalled his direct request, while Representative Steny Hoyer described a palpable sense of confidence in the room about Ukraine's ability to persevere.
The bill, named in honor of the late Senator Graham, targets Russian oil and gas revenue by pressuring countries like China and India to stop purchasing Russian energy. It would grant the president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from those nations. The Senate advanced the measure that evening, with Zelenskyy watching from the chamber, and it later passed 86-11.
However, the legislation now faces an uncertain path in the House. Speaker Mike Johnson leads a Republican majority that has shown reluctance to engage in overseas affairs. Meanwhile, some Democrats, while supportive of Ukraine, have raised concerns that the bill hands the president unchecked tariff powers. Representatives Gregory Meeks and Richard Neal have voiced objections, and a previous amendment to limit those powers failed.
Zelenskyy's visit marks another chapter in his wartime relationship with Congress, which has seen moments of strong support and periods of inaction. After a 2023 funding package stalled and aid ground to a halt following President Donald Trump's return to office, this sanctions bill represents the most significant legislative effort in years. Advocates like Daniel Balson of Razom for Ukraine urge lawmakers not to lose momentum, emphasizing the symbolic importance of showing Ukrainians that international support remains steadfast.