Some G.O.P. Senators Join Democrats in Urging President Donald Trump to Take a Hard Line With Putin
Washington, D.C. | December 27, 2025
Vagabond News Staff
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, including several Republicans, is pressing President Donald Trump to adopt a tougher stance toward Vladimir Putin, signaling growing unease in Congress over Russia’s continued aggression and its implications for U.S. national security.
In letters and public statements this week, Republican senators Lindsey Graham, Mitt Romney, and Susan Collins aligned with Democrats in urging the White House to increase pressure on Moscow through tougher sanctions enforcement, sustained military support for Ukraine, and clearer red lines against further Russian escalation.
“The United States must leave no ambiguity about the costs of continued Russian aggression,” Graham said in a statement, calling for “maximum economic and diplomatic pressure” on the Kremlin. Romney echoed those concerns, warning that any perceived softness toward Moscow could embolden adversaries beyond Eastern Europe.
Democratic leaders, including Chuck Schumer, said the unusual bipartisan push reflects broad frustration with Russia’s conduct and a shared belief that Washington must project unity. “This is about defending international law and U.S. credibility,” Schumer said on the Senate floor.
The appeal comes as the Trump administration reviews its Russia and Ukraine policy heading into the new year. While President Donald Trump has repeatedly said he wants to pursue negotiations to end the conflict, critics in both parties argue that diplomacy without sustained pressure risks rewarding Moscow.
White House officials said the president remains committed to “peace through strength,” emphasizing that sanctions remain in place and that U.S. support for allies continues. However, they did not specify whether new punitive measures against Russia are under active consideration.
Foreign policy analysts note that the bipartisan nature of the senators’ appeal is significant in a deeply polarized Congress. “When Republicans and Democrats converge on Russia policy, it signals real concern that U.S. leverage is slipping,” said one former State Department official.
As fighting in Ukraine drags on and diplomatic efforts stall, lawmakers said they expect further debate in early 2026 over additional sanctions legislation and long-term U.S. security commitments in Europe.
Tags: U.S. Senate, Russia-Ukraine War, President Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Bipartisan Politics, Foreign Policy
