US Senate Pushes to Designate Russia as “Terrorist State” Following Putin-Kim Jong Un Deal

The United States Senate is considering a bill to designate Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism following an agreement between Russian self-proclaimed President Vladimir Putin and North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un on strategic partnership. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, representing both major parties in Congress, introduced the legislation, citing recent developments as grounds for their proposal.

Senator Graham, a Republican, highlighted Putin’s recent visit to North Korea and characterized it as a bold move amid international concerns over North Korea’s repressive regime. He emphasized the urgency of passing the bill, arguing that it reflects a necessary response to Putin’s actions, including alleged crimes in Ukraine and other global incidents.

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal described the Putin-Kim agreement as deeply concerning and hostile to US interests, global peace, freedom, and justice. The senators referenced several incidents as qualifying Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism, including the illegal invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and various alleged acts of poisoning and support for airstrikes in Syria.

The proposed legislation enjoys bipartisan support in Congress, with both senators indicating a readiness to bring it to a vote expeditiously. Blumenthal noted collaboration with the U.S. administration on the bill, suggesting a coordinated effort to address what they perceive as Russia’s destabilizing activities.

Senator Graham downplayed concerns about the provocative nature of the bill, emphasizing its alignment with current US policy objectives regarding Russia. The Senate appears poised to proceed with the legislation in the near future, reflecting growing bipartisan consensus on the issue.