House Speaker Mike Johnson Supports New Sanctions Against Russia
On Wednesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson joined a growing number of lawmakers advocating for stronger measures against Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to intensify sanctions related to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
“I’m not fully briefed yet, but I’m definitely interested in what’s happening in the House,” Johnson told reporters.
“Putin has demonstrated he’s not interested in serious peace talks. I think we need to send him a strong message,” he added.
The proposed sanctions bill, backed by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), would impose hefty tariffs—around 500%—on nations importing energy from Russia.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) expressed hope that the sanctions would be passed by Congress prior to the August recess.
Graham emphasized that Trump believes “it’s time to take action, so we’re pressing forward.” However, Trump’s public stance seemed less enthusiastic.
“It’s an optional bill, and all options are on the table,” Trump mentioned during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, White House officials voiced concerns that this package could restrict the president’s ability to manage foreign policy effectively.
One contentious point involved an initial draft allowing Trump to grant a 180-day exemption for acquiring uranium or oil from Russia.
The latest version contains a second exemption that requires some sort of council approval to implement.
“This version could constrain the President’s foreign policy through a joint resolution,” an official remarked, reflecting concerns about congressional oversight.
New sanctions are gaining traction amid ongoing Russian attacks in Ukraine, which have intensified with drone and missile strikes hitting both civilian and military targets.
On Tuesday night, widespread assaults rattled central and western Ukraine while Trump continued to face backlash regarding his relationship with Putin.
“I’ve expressed my dissatisfaction with the situation. This war should never have happened,” Trump lamented on Wednesday. “Many innocent lives are lost, and this needs to stop.”
Later that day, Trump noted, “I have many connections. If I needed the truth, I’d just ask Putin. He’s been amicable, but it hasn’t led to anything significant.”
The president also signaled a willingness to send Patriot missiles and air defense systems to Ukraine, reversing a prior freeze imposed by the Pentagon.
“They want it. They need it. Many systems have already gone to Ukraine, but they’re clear about what they’re asking for,” he stated.
“We’ll have to evaluate that. When it comes to such systems, it’s a massive undertaking, but it’s necessary to prevent further casualties,” he continued.
Back in April, Johnson had a key role in passing a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, which included $60.8 billion in direct support.
Far-right Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) had attempted to have him expelled, but Johnson managed to retain his position with help from Democratic votes.
