Trump Backs Tough New Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia's Oil Buyers. US President Donald Trump has given the green light for a bipartisan sanctions bill aimed at countries still doing business with Russia, with a congressional vote possible as soon as next week. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham says Trump approved the move after a private meeting, clearing the way for penalties on nations buying Russian energy and helping bankroll Moscow's war in Ukraine. The proposed law would target major buyers of discounted Russian oil, including China, India, and Brazil. Graham argues the bill gives Trump powerful tools to punish those fueling Vladimir Putin's war machine. So far, congressional leaders had held back, as Trump preferred tariffs over sanctions, especially against India. But momentum is shifting fast. With peace talks stalled and Russia showing no sign of compromise, Washington appears ready to escalate pressure—using economic firepower to force Moscow back to the negotiating table.