BREAKING: Trump confirms death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, Zelenskyy pays tribute

International, North America, Obituaries

WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — United States President Donald Trump has confirmed the death of veteran Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as a patriot and one of the finest lawmakers he has known.

Graham, who represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate from January 2003 until his death on July 11, 2026, served in the chamber for more than two decades.

Announcing the development in a post on Truth Social on Sunday, President Trump paid tribute to the late senator’s public service and unwavering commitment to the United States.

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“Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!” Trump wrote.

Also reacting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described Graham as a steadfast supporter of Ukraine and a champion of freedom whose contributions would be remembered.

In a statement on Sunday, Zelenskyy said he was deeply saddened by the senator’s death.

“Deeply saddened by the news of the passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was a true defender of freedom and the values that make our world safer,” he said.

According to the Ukrainian leader, Graham visited Ukraine 10 times since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion and consistently stood with the Ukrainian people during some of their most difficult moments.

“He visited Ukraine ten times during the years of Russia’s full-scale invasion and was here with our people when it was most needed. We remained in constant dialogue, and I will miss our conversations. We met twice in just the past week,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that Graham had been a leading advocate for bipartisan and bicameral support for Ukraine in the United States Congress and had recently been working on initiatives aimed at strengthening sanctions against Russia and advancing efforts towards peace.

“We will always be especially grateful for the recognition of our people and words of admiration for the courage of Ukraine’s defenders,” Zelenskyy added.

Describing the senator’s passing as a significant loss, the Ukrainian President said America and the international community had lost a determined leader.

“Our condolences go out to Lindsey’s family, loved ones, and everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him,” he said.