Ukraine Caucus Urges Trump Administration To Strengthen Russia Sanctions, Fully Implement Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act

September 29, 2026 Press Release Toledo, OH – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), Co-Chairs of the 104-member bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump Administration is considering easing sanctions on Russia in exchange for the release of political prisoners: "Two weeks ago, Congress passed the most significant Russia sanctions legislation since 2017. As long as Russia’s full-scale invasion to conquer Ukraine and threaten our European allies continues, the United States must take every step necessary to stop war criminal Vladimir Putin in his tracks. Sanctions relief will embolden Russia and prolong the war. "We look forward to the Administration’s first round of new sanctions designations ahead of October 18, the first deadline in the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act , and urge the Administration to act swiftly to step up economic pressure on Russia. Peace in Europe can only be achieved through strength." # # # Issues : Trade Jobs and the Economy