Congress passes sweeping US sanctions bill targeting Russia

The US House of Representatives has passed a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia, marking the first legislative support for Ukraine from Congress in over two years. The bill, which previously passed the Senate, grants the president new powers to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian energy, potentially restricting funds to Moscow. It also targets Russian officials, banks, and a fleet of tankers. While championed by some Republicans, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the bill, citing loopholes and concerns about its impact on US allies. The legislation aims to further isolate Russia economically due to its ongoing war in Ukraine.

The US Congress has passed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, granting President Trump expanded authority to impose sanctions on Russia and its enablers. The bill, which passed the House by a 262-159 vote, allows Trump to raise tariffs on major buyers of Russian energy, including China, and target entities supplying Russia's war machine. While supporters argue it's a crucial step to pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine, some Democrats and Republicans expressed concerns that the president could wield this power against US allies. The legislation also mandates new sanctions on Russian officials and networks aiding evasion of existing sanctions, and targets Russia's "shadow tankers." The bill's passage followed a period of debate and last-minute hurdles in the House, despite prior Senate approval.