How the Senate passed Graham's Russia sanctions bill and what's next

Key Points:

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed a bipartisan group of U.S. senators and representatives at the Capitol, emphasizing Ukraine's need for Patriot missiles, expanded Starlink access, and a sanctions package targeting Russian oil and gas revenues.
• The Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act with an 86-11 vote, aiming to cut off Moscow's energy income by pressuring countries like China and India, though the bill faces uncertainty in the Republican-controlled House.
• Some Democrats oppose the bill due to concerns over granting former President Trump broad tariff authority without sufficient congressional oversight, fearing potential misuse against allies and American interests.
• Zelenskyy's relationship with the U.S. has fluctuated, with strong early support giving way to legislative inaction during Trump's presidency, but he continues to engage closely with lawmakers to maintain aid and support for Ukraine.
• Advocates and some lawmakers stress the symbolic and strategic importance of passing the sanctions bill to demonstrate continued international solidarity with Ukraine amid the prolonged conflict with Russia.