Washington: Legislation imposing new sanctions on Moscow and its trading partners is currently on hold, pending an anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, stated US Senate Majority Leader John Thune on Monday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Thune mentioned that discussions are ongoing with Sen. Lindsey Graham, who is collaborating with the White House to spearhead the sanctions initiative. Thune remarked, 'I think they're thinking that - see how this meeting goes in a couple of weeks with Putin,' signaling a strategic pause until the potential dialogue occurs.

A second source, who wished to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, confirmed that progress on the sanctions bill is effectively stalled until after the Trump-Putin meeting takes place. This indicates a cautious approach by lawmakers, waiting to assess the outcomes of the high-level encounter before proceeding.

Trump previously indicated that the meeting would likely occur in Budapest, Hungary, although he did not specify an exact date. The sanctions bill, which boasts over 80 cosponsors, appears to have sufficient support to overcome any presidential opposition. Nonetheless, Republican leaders have shown reluctance to advance the legislation without explicit approval from Trump, concerned that moving forward could place GOP members in a precarious political situation.