US Lawmakers Pass Sweeping Russia Sanctions, Granting Trump Tariff Power Over China and India

Key points

• The US House approved the sanctions bill 262 to 159, following a 86-11 Senate vote, with Trump expected to sign it into law.
• The bill targets Russia’s energy and defense industries, Putin’s inner circle, and the 'shadow fleet' of tankers used to evade Western restrictions.
• It grants Trump the power to impose tariffs of up to 100% on nations purchasing large volumes of Russian oil and gas, specifically targeting China and India.
• China and India, which together account for roughly one-third of Russian seaborne oil exports, have stated they will continue buying Russian energy despite the threat of tariffs.
• The legislation extends existing sanctions related to Iran and targets companies supporting Russia’s military effort, marking the first major US legislative action against Moscow since Trump’s return to office.

Background

This development follows a nearly two-year lull in major US legislative support for Ukraine. The Senate had approved a similar sanctions package in August 2026, but the House delayed passage until September. Previous US tariffs on India for buying Russian oil had been reduced in February 2026, but the new bill introduces a more comprehensive statutory authority for the president to impose trade penalties.

How outlets are covering it

Euronews highlights the bipartisan support for the bill, noting that most Democrats voted in favor despite objections from figures like Gregory Meeks, who criticized the broad tariff powers granted to the president. CNBC emphasizes the geopolitical implications, noting that China and India are unlikely to cut back on Russian oil due to energy security concerns, but that the tariff threat gives Washington leverage in trade negotiations. Experts cited by CNBC suggest Trump may hold the tariff authority in reserve as a tool of leverage rather than immediately imposing it, particularly ahead of a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. India’s foreign ministry has stated it will continue ensuring energy security for its population, while analysts note that public sentiment in India against the US has been turning negative due to previous tariff disputes.

Why it matters

The passage of this bill marks a significant shift in US policy toward Russia, aiming to cut off Moscow’s energy revenues that fund its war in Ukraine. However, the potential impact on global energy markets and trade relations with major powers like China and India could have far-reaching consequences, potentially disrupting energy supplies and escalating diplomatic tensions. The bill’s success in pressuring Russia will depend on its enforcement and the willingness of other nations to comply with the new tariff threats.

What to watch

President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law, after which the focus will shift to its enforcement. The US may use the tariff authority as leverage in trade negotiations with China and India, while both countries are likely to continue purchasing Russian oil despite the threat of penalties. Ukraine and its advocates are urging swift enforcement to cut off cash flows to the Kremlin, while Russia may seek to exploit loopholes in the sanctions to maintain its energy exports.