Congress passes Graham sanctions bill, granting Trump authority to impose 100% tariffs on Russian energy buyers

Key points

• The House approved the bill 262-159, with 53 Democrats joining 203 Republicans in support.
• The legislation allows tariffs of up to 100% on the top five buyers of Russian energy, including China and India.
• It mandates sanctions against Russian political and military officials, oligarchs, and the 'shadow tanker' fleet.
• The bill was introduced by late Senator Lindsey Graham in April 2025 and passed the Senate in August.
• President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law, according to a White House official.

Background

The bill faced a prolonged legislative delay due to initial opposition from the Trump administration, which later shifted to support the measure after stalled peace negotiations with Moscow. Earlier coverage noted that the legislation had been in development for over a year and a half, with Graham’s final public appearance in Ukraine occurring just before his death in July 2026. The measure also includes provisions targeting Iran’s weapons and energy sectors.

How outlets are covering it

Supporters, including Rep. Michael McCaul and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, argued the bill is necessary to cripple Russia’s war machine and force negotiations, describing it as a 'Churchill vs Chamberlain Moment.' They contended the tariff authority is narrowly tailored and that courts would restrain any misuse. Critics, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Reps. Gregory Meeks, Don Beyer, and Richard Neal, warned the bill grants Trump excessive power to impose tariffs on allies, potentially raising prices for Americans without guaranteeing sanctions against Russia. Some Republicans privately lobbied to remove tariff provisions, fearing economic shocks ahead of midterm elections, but Speaker Mike Johnson rejected these changes. Two Democrats, Jared Golden and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, defied party leadership to help pass the bill, citing support for Ukraine.

Why it matters

The bill significantly expands presidential authority over trade policy, potentially impacting global energy markets and US alliances. It aims to pressure Russia by targeting its oil revenue, which funds its war in Ukraine, while raising concerns about executive overreach in tariff enforcement.

What to watch

President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law. The administration will determine specific tariff levels through US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Implementation of sanctions against Russian officials and the 'shadow tanker' fleet will follow, with potential legal challenges if tariffs are applied to allies.