A bipartisan Senate bill seeks to brand Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism for the first time in U.S. history, targeting Putin’s regime over the systematic kidnapping of over 19,000 Ukrainian children—a move that would economically devastate Russia and align America with conservative principles of accountability and justice.
Story Highlights
- Senate bill S.4625 would designate Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism, joining Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Syria
- Over 19,000 Ukrainian children allegedly kidnapped by Russia for indoctrination and military training
- Bipartisan support led by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal with over 80 cosponsors
- Designation would make Russia’s economy “radioactive” and impose 500% tariffs on goods from countries buying Russian oil
Legislative Push Gains Momentum
Bill S.4625, introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal in June 2024, gained renewed urgency following Russia’s violation of Polish airspace in September 2025. The legislation specifically targets Russia’s systematic abduction of Ukrainian children, with estimates exceeding 19,000 cases. Graham emphasized that “Russia’s earned the right to be on this list,” highlighting the regime’s pattern of international terrorism beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Humanitarian Crisis Drives Action
The bill addresses Russia’s orchestrated campaign to kidnap Ukrainian children for forced indoctrination and military training—a clear violation of international law and human decency. These actions represent state-sanctioned terrorism designed to erase Ukrainian identity and culture. The legislation recognizes this humanitarian catastrophe as grounds for the most severe diplomatic designation available, demonstrating American commitment to protecting innocent children from authoritarian regimes.
Economic Warfare Through Sanctions
The state sponsor of terrorism designation would impose devastating economic consequences on Russia, making international business transactions virtually impossible. Policy analysts describe the potential impact as making Russia’s economy “radioactive” to global markets. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for 500% tariffs on goods from countries purchasing Russian oil, creating powerful incentives for nations to sever economic ties with Putin’s regime.
Constitutional and Strategic Implications
This legislation reflects core conservative principles of holding authoritarian regimes accountable while protecting American interests and values. The bipartisan nature of the bill demonstrates unity against tyranny, with over 80 cosponsors supporting related sanctions measures. The designation would place Russia alongside Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Syria—enemies of freedom and democracy. This approach aligns with constitutional principles of defending liberty and human rights against despotic governments that threaten global stability and kidnap children for political purposes.
Sources:
S.4625 – A bill to designate the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism
