US Senator Blumenthal hopes bill imposing sanctions on Russia to be passed in Sept

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal spoke at a press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, expressing optimism that the House of Representatives would pass the co-sponsored bill to tighten sanctions against Russia and Iran in September. Blumenthal made this statement following the Senate's approval of the legislation in August. During a visit to Ukraine in May, he had pledged to work even harder to get the sanctions bill passed and was now more determined to ensure the House's approval.

He anticipated the House would reconvene in September and was in close communication with its leadership. Blumenthal also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, encouraging him to maintain an open mind to discussions with House members, similar to his conversations with senators. Zelenskyy agreed to engage with House members, either during a visit to New York and the United Nations or another suitable time.

The bill, introduced by late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, would impose 100% secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, primarily targeting China and India. It also imposes sanctions on Russia's "shadow fleet" of tankers, financial institutions, and major state-owned energy projects. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, who met with all senators before the vote, expressed his support for the bill.