Trump backs Russia sanctions bill, U.S. Senate majority leader says

"The president has now weighed in, in support of the Russia sanctions legislation," Thune told reporters.

When asked if the sanctions could be enacted this year, Thune replied: "We'll see."

The official previously said that the House should take the first step to advance the measure, while Republican leaders in the House have long argued the Senate should act first.

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham said House and Senate members would discuss advancing the bill after Trump privately told top Republicans he backs it.

Graham said the White House sent him a statement on the bill, and its drafters signed it.

The bill would impose tariffs on countries importing Russian energy and secondary sanctions on foreign companies supporting Russia's energy production, Politico said.

Republican Rep. Joe Wilson said the House could pass the bill faster if Trump publicly endorses it. He noted that 15% of Republicans would oppose Russia sanctions regardless, but not enough to derail the effort.

House leadership has not said whether or when it will consider the Russia sanctions bill.

Reuters reported earlier that Trump is ready to sign a Russia sanctions bill if it preserves his authority to make final decisions on the measures.

On Nov. 17, Trump said Republicans are working on a bill that would sanction any country doing business with Russia.

The secondary sanctions bill, authored by Republican Lindsey Graham and Democrat Richard Blumenthal, was introduced in spring 2025. It calls for 500% tariffs on imports from countries buying Russian oil, natural gas or uranium.