US lawmakers pass bill giving Trump more power to sanction Russia and its enablers
Summary
The US Congress passed a bill that gives President Donald Trump more power to increase tariffs on countries buying Russian energy and to impose new sanctions on Russia and those helping it. The bill aims to punish Russia for its war against Ukraine by cutting off money that supports its military actions.Key Facts
- The bill is called the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 and passed with a 262-159 vote.
- It allows President Trump to raise tariffs up to 100% on top buyers of Russian energy, including China.
- The bill targets Russian officials, military helpers, and foreign groups that help Russia avoid previous sanctions.
- It also focuses on stopping Russia’s “shadow tankers,” ships that secretly move Russian oil despite sanctions.
- Some Democrats worried the bill gives too much power to President Trump to impose tariffs even on US allies.
- The Senate passed the bill earlier with an 86-11 vote, but the House had more debate and closer votes.
- Supporters say the bill is needed to cut off funds for Russia’s war and to help Ukraine during a difficult winter.
- The Ukrainian government and many US Ukrainians support the bill as an important step against Russia’s aggression.
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