WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Friday signed into law a bill authorizing sweeping new sanctions against Russia, including tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, following months of congressional deliberation.
The legislation, passed by the Republican-led House of Representatives on Wednesday in a 262-159 vote, targets Russia’s energy and defense sectors, President Vladimir Putin, senior Kremlin officials, and Moscow’s so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to evade existing sanctions. It also extends existing sanctions on Iran for five years.
The White House confirmed Trump’s signature in a brief statement, noting the law authorizes and expands statutory sanctions, tariffs, and prohibitions on Russia while maintaining restrictions on Iran. The bill was named in honor of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a long-time advocate for stringent measures against Russia.
Key provisions of the law
The new law grants the U.S. president broad authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, a measure that could affect countries such as China and India. It also expands sanctions on Russian financial institutions, state-owned companies, and individuals supporting Moscow’s military efforts in Ukraine.
The legislation further targets Russia’s shadow fleet—a network of tankers used to transport Russian oil while evading Western sanctions. The bill also extends existing sanctions related to Iran, including those targeting its nuclear program and regional activities.
Congressional and international reactions
The bill passed the Senate in August with an 86-11 vote and the House on Wednesday, reflecting bipartisan support despite some divisions. Democrats largely supported the measure, though some expressed concerns over the broad tariff authority granted to the president, which they argued could interfere with trade policy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the legislation, calling it a “critically important” tool to pressure Russia into ending its war in Ukraine. In a post on X, he thanked Trump and lawmakers for their support, stating the sanctions would strengthen diplomatic efforts to achieve peace.
India, a major buyer of Russian oil, responded by reaffirming its commitment to diversified sourcing but did not indicate a change in its energy procurement strategy. New Delhi has continued purchasing Russian oil despite Western pressure to reduce reliance on Moscow.
Background and implications
The bill’s passage comes as Russia intensifies its military campaign in Ukraine, even as Moscow faces growing international isolation. The U.S. has framed the sanctions as a means to deprive Russia of revenue to finance its war efforts while encouraging a negotiated settlement.
The law also reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to balance support for Ukraine with broader geopolitical considerations, including relations with countries like China and India, which have maintained economic ties with Russia. The inclusion of tariff authority on oil buyers underscores Washington’s intent to tighten the economic squeeze on Moscow while avoiding direct military confrontation.
The White House has not specified which elements of the sanctions package will be implemented immediately, stating only that the law provides the president with new tools to enforce economic pressure on Russia and extend sanctions on Iran.