Summary
- The US House of Representatives has approved a sweeping sanctions bill targeting Russia, paving the way for the legislation to reach President Donald Trump for his signature.
- The bill aims to restrict Moscow’s access to revenue from its energy sector and increase economic pressure on the Russian government over the war in Ukraine.
- Under the bill, Trump would gain the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and natural gas.
The US House of Representatives has approved a sweeping sanctions bill targeting Russia, paving the way for the legislation to reach President Donald Trump for his signature.
The bill aims to restrict Moscow’s access to revenue from its energy sector and increase economic pressure on the Russian government over the war in Ukraine.
The legislation, officially named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, targets key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy and defence. It also includes measures against Russian officials, financial institutions and oil tankers involved in circumventing existing sanctions.
Under the bill, Trump would gain the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and natural gas. China and India, which remain significant purchasers of Russian energy, could potentially face the additional tariffs if the president invokes these powers. The legislation does not automatically impose the tariffs; it gives the administration the authority to introduce them under specified conditions.
The bill also seeks to target Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—a network of vessels that allegedly helps Moscow transport oil while evading international sanctions. By restricting these shipping operations, US lawmakers aim to limit Russia’s ability to generate revenue from energy exports.
The US Senate approved the sanctions package by an overwhelming 86-11 vote in August following months of negotiations. President Trump has expressed support for the legislation and is expected to sign it into law.
The bill’s passage comes amid continued efforts to increase economic pressure on Moscow and limit the financial resources supporting its military operations in Ukraine. However, some Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about the expanded tariff powers granted to the president, arguing that the measures could affect US allies and create broader economic consequences.
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