House Speaker Mike Johnson has emphasized the urgent need for new sanctions on Russia’s energy sector as part of a broader strategy to confront Russian President Vladimir Putin. Johnson’s remarks follow the introduction of new legislation by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), aimed at compelling Russia to cease its military actions in Ukraine. The proposed sanctions reflect a growing sentiment among lawmakers to adopt a firmer stance against what Johnson describes as Putin’s “bullying.”
Speaking on Fox News’s Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo, Johnson stated that there is a “big appetite” within the House for such legislation. He remarked, “I think tough sanctions are called for. Vladimir Putin has shown an unwillingness to work with President Trump to bring an end to this unjust war on Ukraine. We’ve got to talk tough and got to act tough. That’s what he responds to.”
Johnson characterized Putin as a “bully,” warning that failing to confront him would only enable further aggression in Ukraine. “If you don’t treat him as such, then he’ll continue to run his rampage through Ukraine, and we’ve got to bring an end to that,” he added. His comments come amidst renewed violence in Ukraine, where Russian forces conducted missile and drone strikes over the weekend, resulting in two fatalities and injuring 26 others in the Bukovina region. A separate drone attack in western Lviv also left 12 people wounded.
The legislative push for sanctions has gained momentum, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) indicating plans to bring the bill to a vote before the Senate recess in August. Johnson’s advocacy for these measures highlights a broader commitment among U.S. lawmakers to support Ukraine and deter Russian aggression.
In related developments, Congress recently passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed by President Donald Trump on July 4, 2023. Johnson noted that the bill prioritizes funding for border security and national defense, promoting a policy of “peace through strength.” Among the security investments is a project referred to as “the golden dome,” which has drawn criticism from both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who labeled it “deeply destabilizing.”
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the urgency for a strong U.S. response grows, with many lawmakers recognizing the critical role that sanctions could play in influencing Russia’s military strategy. Johnson’s calls for action reflect a bipartisan commitment to ensuring that the United States remains a steadfast ally to Ukraine in its fight against aggression.
