Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., called on President Donald Trump to end all speculation that he's considering lifting sanctions against Russia.
McCain's comments come a day before Trump is scheduled to talk by phone to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"President Donald Trump's call with Vladimir Putin is scheduled to take place amid widespread speculation that the White House is considering lifting sanctions against Russia," McCain said.
"For the sake of America's national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law.
"In just the last three years under Vladimir Putin, Russia has invaded Ukraine, annexed Crimea, threatened NATO allies, and intervened militarily in Syria, leaving a trail of death, destruction, and broken promises in his wake.
And he said the most flagrant demonstration of "Putin's disdain and disrespect for our nation" was Russia's "deliberate interference" during the presidential through cyberattacks and a disinformation campaign.
McCain cautioned Trump to remember the "man on the other end of the line is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn."
And he added: "For our commander-in-chief to think otherwise would be naïve and dangerous."
Former President Obama had imposed sanctions on Russia throughout his eight years in office, CNN reported. Before leaving office, he expelled 35 Russian diplomats from the U.S. in retaliation for Russia's interference in the election.
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