Following recent meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron, US senators have expressed grave concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing for further military action in Ukraine. Senator Lindsey Graham is leading bipartisan efforts to enact stringent sanctions against Russia, while House Speaker Mike Johnson has voiced strong support for these measures. As momentum builds in Washington for new sanctions, including a proposed 500% tariff aimed at crippling Russia’s economy, lawmakers emphasize the urgent need for action before peace negotiations can resume. The situation has created a rift amongst GOP members, with some officials calling for immediate sanctions while others await direction from former President Trump. Overall, the climate indicates a serious push for crippling sanctions to deter Putin and pressure him into serious peace talks.