Yesterday, the world watched as President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin sat down in Alaska for a historic summit with one goal: securing a ceasefire in Ukraine.
The message behind them said it all: Pursuing Peace. And while real progress was made, President Trump was clear — no ceasefire deal just yet. The next step: a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to hammer out a full agreement.
Zoom out: Putin says he wants peace. But I worked in intelligence long enough to know you can’t take a dictator at his word.
❌While diplomacy unfolds, Russia continues bombing Ukraine’s energy grid and targeting civilians
❌We’ve seen this before: ceasefire talks used as a smokescreen while Putin retools for more aggression.
Peace only works if it’s backed by strength. That was my message on Mornings with Maria yesterday before the summit. 🎥Watch here:
That’s why I’m leading the PEACE Act, the only bipartisan Russia sanctions bill to pass a House committee, 53-1. We’re ready to bring it to the floor and send it to President Trump’s desk immediately. This bill would:
🔒 Cut off Putin’s cash flow if he breaks his word
💪 Give the Trump administration real leverage at the negotiating table
🇺🇸 Make clear to Putin that America means what it says — and backs it up with action
Bottom Line: As a veteran and an intelligence officer, I’ve seen firsthand that when sanctions are done right, they work. While President Trump pursues peace, we’re making sure that peace is backed by U.S. strength.