US Senate approves Russia sanctions bill

US Senate approves Russia sanctions bill

The U.S. Senate has approved a major Russia sanctions bill that could let President Donald Trump impose 100% tariffs on imports from countries buying large amounts of Russian oil and gas. The legislation is named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.

The bill passed by an 86-11 vote and specifically targets major purchasers of Russian energy, including India, China, Azerbaijan, Hungary and Slovakia. It is designed to pressure buyers of Russian petroleum products, which lawmakers say helps finance the war in Ukraine.

The measure also extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 until 2031. It now moves to the House of Representatives, which is scheduled to return on August 31.

Key Events

  • The U.S. Senate approved the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.
  • The vote in the Senate was 86-11.
  • The bill could allow President Donald Trump to impose 100% tariffs on goods from countries that are among the top five importers of Russian oil and gas.
  • India, China, Azerbaijan, Hungary and Slovakia are identified as the top five importers of Russian oil and gas.
  • The bill would extend the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 until 2031.
  • The measure will next go to the House of Representatives when it reconvenes on August 31.