US House passes Russia sanctions bill with Trump tariff powers

The US House of Representatives approved the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on Wednesday by a 262-159 vote, sending the legislation to President Donald Trump for his expected signature. The bill passed the Senate 86-11 last month.

The measure imposes mandatory sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior officials, financial institutions, and the so-called shadow fleet of tankers that evade existing oil restrictions. It also extends Iran sanctions through 2031.

“We cannot grant more tariff power that we know he will abuse.”

A controversial provision grants Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian oil and gas — potentially including China, India, and Turkey — if they continue new purchases after enactment. The top five buyers will be reassessed every 180 days.

The vote split Democrats: 58 supported the bill while 152 opposed it, largely over concerns that the tariff authority could be used against allies. Seven Republicans also voted no. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries warned the bill "doesn't require the president to impose sanctions on Russia" and contains loopholes.

Supporters argue the legislation increases economic pressure on Moscow as the Ukraine war enters its fifth year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lobbied for its passage. On Wednesday, a Russian drone strike on civilian transport in southern Ukraine killed at least five people.

The bill requires the president to implement sanctions within 30 days and review them every six months. Sanctions can only be lifted if Russia fully ceases hostilities and signs a peace agreement with a free, independent Ukrainian government.