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US Senate Delays Russia Sanctions Bill as Focus Shifts to Middle East Tensions

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Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
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US Senate Delays Russia Sanctions Bill as Focus Shifts to Middle East Tensions
US President Donald Trump looks on as a US flag is raised on a newly installed flagpole on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC on June 18, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

The US Senate has postponed consideration of a new sanctions package targeting Russia, citing shifting priorities due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

According to Semafor on June 19, Republican leaders are pushing for the Senate to first address former President Donald Trump’s proposed tax and spending legislation next week. The White House has yet to approve moving forward with the Russia sanctions bill.

Senator Lindsey Graham, a co-author of the legislation, confirmed the delay, stating that sanctions would need to “wait a bit,” without providing a clear timeline.

“Things are changing now with Iran. That doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten about Russia or Ukraine. Not at all. Iran is center stage, but sooner rather than later.,” Graham said.

Senator Richard Blumenthal, another co-sponsor, reaffirmed his support for the sanctions but acknowledged that current developments in the Middle East are taking precedence.

The delay comes as Russia continues its full-scale war against Ukraine, and as calls grow for stronger international pressure on the Kremlin.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s offer to mediate the conflict between Israel and Iran, urging him instead to concentrate on ending Russia’s war against Ukraine.

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