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PARIS - Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to be delaying peace negotiations while readying a new military offense in Ukraine, according to senior U.S. senators. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham and Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal stressed on Sunday that the upcoming fortnight could significantly influence the trajectory of a war that has already devastated cities, displaced millions, and altered Europe's security framework.

Graham and Blumenthal shared their concerns with The Associated Press in Paris, after meeting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and surveying areas heavily hit by severe Russian attacks. Their visit to Paris included discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, who they claim fully supports their stance on the war. They warned that time is running out to forestall another assault.

A robust U.S. sanctions bill, they believe, might represent the West's last opportunity to impede the Kremlin's war machinery. The senators hope their firsthand observations will shift momentum in Washington and persuade a hesitant President Donald Trump to support the initiative. Graham highlighted Putin's war preparations, while Blumenthal described the proposed sanctions as "bone-crushing," aimed at isolating Russia's economy.

Central to their advocacy is a bipartisan sanctions bill, enjoying near-universal Senate support but facing uncertain prospects in Washington. This legislation would impose 500% tariffs on nations that continue purchasing Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other exports. Such a move primarily targets countries like China and India, which together account for approximately 70% of Russia's energy trade, crucial for financing its war efforts. Graham termed the bill the most severe he's encountered in the Senate.

Despite ongoing peace talks, Ukrainian officials report that Moscow has not yet presented a serious proposal, a strategy the senators view as intentional and perilous. They claim that Putin is stalling to launch a new offensive and gain more ground. Both senators assert that thwarting Putin now is critical to avoid deeper conflict in the future, potentially involving NATO forces.

Their assessments come from striking personal experiences during their visit to Ukraine, where the human suffering from the war was glaring. Graham cited estimates of 20,000 children forcibly taken to Russia, emphasizing their return as a matter of justice. Blumenthal recounted visits to mass grave sites in Bucha, where civilians were executed, underscoring the brutal stakes of any further delay.

A crucial meeting with President Macron in Paris bolstered their belief that Europe is ready to adopt a firmer stance against Russia. Blumenthal commended Macron's "moral clarity," reinforcing their mission's urgency. The senators noted the unusual bipartisan support for the sanctions bill in the U.S., as 41 Republicans and 41 Democrats have united behind this legislation.

As Ukrainian military leaders prepare to brief Congress, a sanctions vote seems imminent. Graham believes conclusive evidence of Russia's intentions will emerge soon, underscoring the critical importance of timely action.