Lankford hedges on sanctions timing after Kyiv visit

Sen. James Lankford, after a two-day visit to Kyiv, said he cannot promise when Congress will pass new sanctions on Russia, noting the House plans to take up the package in September but not locking in a schedule; Zelenskyy urged quicker action and more economic pressure, including Patriot missiles, but Lankford could not commit on interceptors. With the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham, Lankford said he’s not stepping in to replace him as the primary Ukraine hawk and emphasized he doesn’t plan to assume that role. He praised Ukraine’s military advancements and stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue as lawmakers decide next steps on aid and sanctions.