U.S. senator says Russia could face terrorism label over abducted Ukrainian children

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said he will seek to label Russia a state sponsor of terrorism unless it releases abducted Ukrainian children, a move that could widen Moscow’s isolation and curb ties with countries and businesses.

Republican Senator from South Carolina Lindsey Graham.

Photo: EPA/ALLISON DINNER

Graham said on X that Russia has abducted more than 19,000 Ukrainian children since launching its full-scale invasion. He said he intends to introduce a bill to designate Russia a state sponsor of terrorism.

During the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia has kidnapped over 19,000 Ukrainian children. Stealing children from their home country is a despicable and barbaric act. As I have been saying since earlier this year, I intend to push legislation to designate Russia a state…

— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) August 20, 2025

The senator said that, if adopted, the designation would make cooperation with Russia unacceptable for other countries and companies. He added the step would compel Washington to place additional restrictions on nations interacting with the Kremlin.

Ukraine has pressed the United States since 2022 to apply the terrorism label to Russia.

The administration of former President Joe Biden rejected those demands, arguing the move would constrain overall U.S. engagement with Moscow and block diplomatic efforts to end the war.

In 2023, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe designated Russia a state sponsor of the Wagner Private Military Company, described as Moscow’s shadow army and a terrorist group.

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Source: PAP