Zelenskyy Meets U.S. Senators, Urges Tougher Sanctions on Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in Kyiv with U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham(Republican) and Richard Blumenthal (Democrat) to discuss coordinated efforts to increase pressure on Russia, strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, and advance bilateral cooperation amid Russia’s ongoing invasion, The Gaze reports.
The meeting comes just days before another round of talks in Istanbul, which Ukraine fears will once again be manipulated by Moscow.
“We remain ready for constructive negotiations,” Zelenskyy said, “but Russia is unable even to define an agenda for the meeting.” He accused Moscow of “only showing interest in peace in words, while preparing for new offensives.”
President Zelenskyy welcomed the senators’ bipartisan bill to toughen sanctions on Russia and its allies. He called for new measures against the Russian banking and energy sectors, a $30 oil price cap, and secondary sanctions on companies that help Russia circumvent restrictions.
Graham stated that “Sanctions are our ace.” Senator Graham confirmed the Senate will begin advancing the sanctions bill next week. “We’re coming after countries that fund Putin’s war machine,” he said, warning China and India could face 500% tariffs if they continue purchasing Russian oil.
“The game Russia is playing will change. When the sanctions hit, Putin will be stunned by what the U.S. is capable of,” Graham said.
The president also called for unblocking frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s defense and recovery.
Additionally, the leaders discussed bolstering Ukraine’s air defense and cooperation in the defense industry, including potential joint drone ventures. “Ukrainians dominate drone warfare. It would be madness not to do business with you,” Graham added.
Special attention was paid to the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, with Zelenskyy thanking the U.S. for support in securing their return.
Finally, Zelenskyy promoted the idea of a free trade and defense cooperation agreement with the U.S., building on the recently proposed U.S.–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund.
As The Gaze previously reported, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately stalling the war by failing to follow through on its diplomatic commitments—most notably, the promised memorandum on ceasefire negotiations.
Ukraine has confirmed its readiness to attend the next round of direct negotiations with Russia in Istanbul on June 2, but is urging Moscow to submit its ceasefire proposal in advance to avoid an unproductive meeting.