Senator Lindsey Graham has threatened to push bipartisan legislation to designate Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism if Moscow does not return over 20,000 Ukrainian children reportedly kidnapped during its ongoing war, with estimates suggesting the number could be as high as 35,000.

Graham emphasized that if Russia does not return the abducted children, he will advocate for designating Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism, which could make Russia 'radioactive' under U.S. law, and insists that the return of the children should be part of any peace negotiations.

Estimates of kidnapped Ukrainian children vary, with some Ukrainian officials suggesting the number could be as high as 35,000.

Graham believes that ending the war will require compelling Russia to believe severe economic consequences are imminent if they do not cease hostilities.

President Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky and European leaders at the White House to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine amid the conflict.

Graham expressed hope that imposing economic pressure on Russia could help end the war and has confidence in Trump's leadership to drive these efforts.

The White House has voiced ongoing concern over the mass abduction of Ukrainian children, with First Lady Melania Trump personally urging Putin for peace and highlighting the war's impact on children.

Graham and Senator Richard Blumenthal have introduced a bipartisan sanctions bill with around 85 co-sponsors aimed at pressuring Russia economically, although President Trump has indicated he prefers unilateral sanctions.

Russian actions include abducting children to re-educate, conscript, or force them into combat against Ukraine, as part of a broader strategy to influence Ukraine's sovereignty.

Ahead of President Trump's meeting with Vladimir Putin, the White House expressed concern about the mass abductions but did not explicitly address the kidnapping issue in official statements.