US President Donald Trump has given his approval to a tough new bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill, which could allow the United States to punish not only Russia but also countries that continue to buy Russian oil and other key resources. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said Trump has “greenlit” the bill, meaning he supports moving it forward.

If the bill is passed by Congress, it would allow the US President to impose very high tariffs, up to 500 per cent, on countries that knowingly purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium, or other major exports. These penalties could affect several countries, including India, China and Brazil, which still trade with Russia.

The sanctions bill is designed to weaken Russia’s economy by cutting off the money that funds its military operations. Lawmakers supporting the bill say Russia uses profits from oil and energy exports to continue its war in Ukraine, which began with Moscow’s invasion nearly four years ago.

Senator Graham said he discussed the bill directly with Trump during a meeting at the White House on Wednesday. According to Graham, Trump agreed that the timing was right to push forward with the legislation. A White House official also confirmed Trump’s support while speaking to the Associated Press.

In a statement, Graham said Ukraine is making compromises in hopes of achieving peace, while Russian President Vladimir Putin continues military attacks. He added that stronger pressure is needed to force Russia to take peace talks seriously.

Graham said a vote on the bill could take place as early as next week, though this is not certain. The US Senate is currently focused on passing a temporary government funding package. After that, lawmakers will break for a recess tied to Martin Luther King Jr Day, which could delay further action.

The Russia Sanctions Bill was written by Senator Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, showing rare cooperation between Republicans and Democrats. The bill has strong support in the Senate, with dozens of co-sponsors, and a similar version has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Republican lawmaker Brian Fitzpatrick.

Earlier, the White House had asked for changes to give Trump more flexibility in how the sanctions are applied, though it is not clear whether those changes were included. At the same time, the Trump administration continues to work toward a peace deal, with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner leading negotiations on behalf of the US.