Russia Sanctions Bill Reaches the White House for Trump’s Signature

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a major bill imposing additional sanctions on Russia and Iran, sending the legislation to the White House for President Donald Trump’s approval. The bill passed with 262 members voting in favor and 159 against. The legislation, titled the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, is named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham. The bill was also approved by the U.S. Senate last month by an overwhelming vote of 86-11.

Under the legislation, the United States would have the authority to impose primary and secondary sanctions on Russia. Those targeted could include Russian officials, billionaires, their family members, Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as foreign individuals supporting Russia in the war in Ukraine. The bill also opens the way for action against Russia’s energy and defense sectors, as well as so-called “shadow fleet” tankers allegedly used to circumvent sanctions. The legislation would also give the U.S. president the authority to impose targeted tariffs on goods imported from countries that purchase large quantities of Russian oil or gas or assist Russia in evading U.S. sanctions. According to reports, these additional tariffs could be as high as 100 percent.

Supporters of the bill say the measure is intended to restrict financial resources for Russia’s war efforts and increase pressure on Moscow over Ukraine. However, some Democratic lawmakers have expressed concerns about the broad powers granted to the president and the potential impact on U.S. allies. Following approval by the House of Representatives, the bill now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature, after which it would become law.