According to a statement from a White House representative, the administration insists that the bill include a provision that would guarantee the U.S. president control over the sanctions imposed.
“It is important for the administration and the president that the sanctions package includes a clause that gives the president the right to make final decisions. If such a clause is included, I am sure the president will consider the possibility of signing this bill,” noted a source in the White House.
No further details about the bill were provided.
Additionally, the White House representative reported on ongoing negotiations between the Trump administration and Russia aimed at ending hostilities in Ukraine.
The secondary sanctions bill proposed in the spring of 2025 by Republican Lindsey Graham and Democrat Richard Blumenthal includes 500% tariffs on imports from countries that purchase Russian oil and gas.
Lindsey Graham stated on November 17 that this bill would provide President Trump with additional powers, allowing him to pressure both Putin and supporting states like Iran to push for peace negotiations.
