The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a sweeping sanctions package that now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature. The bill cleared the House by a vote of 262-159, following its earlier passage in the Senate on August 7 by 86-11.
The legislation grants Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian oil and natural gas, including India and China, as part of efforts to curb Russian energy revenues funding its war in Ukraine. The bill also expands sanctions on Russian officials, financial institutions, and vessels in Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, which has facilitated oil exports despite Western restrictions.
House vote breakdown and bipartisan dynamics
The House vote reflected divided opinions among lawmakers. While 262 members voted in favor, 159 opposed, with some Democrats criticizing the bill’s structure. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) argued the legislation contained “loopholes” that could undermine its intended impact, stating, “The manner in which this bill has been written doesn’t require the president of the United States to impose sanctions on Russia.”
Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) echoed concerns, saying, “What we’re not for is giving more tariff authority to this president.” Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) framed the bill as a bipartisan effort, though he acknowledged “pockets of concern” within the Republican caucus. The bill was ultimately advanced with two Democrats breaking ranks to support it during a key procedural vote on Tuesday.
Key provisions and targeted entities
The legislation targets Russia’s leadership, energy sector, and financial institutions, while also expanding sanctions on Iran. A central provision allows Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries importing significant quantities of Russian oil or gas, with an exception for nations importing less than 15% of Russia’s natural gas exports and actively reducing purchases.
The bill’s tariff authority is designed to pressure major buyers of Russian energy, including India and China, which have continued purchasing discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine war began. The measure also seeks to disrupt Russia’s shadow fleet, a network of vessels used to evade sanctions and sustain oil exports.
Next steps and potential implications
If signed into law, the bill would grant Trump new executive powers to impose tariffs, raising concerns among some lawmakers about unintended economic consequences. Critics argue the legislation could raise prices for American consumers while failing to guarantee sanctions against Russia.
The bill now heads to Trump’s desk for his signature. If enacted, it would mark a significant escalation in Western efforts to limit Russia’s financial resources amid its ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.