President Trump signs major sanctions package against Russia

On September 16, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a significant bipartisan sanctions package against Russia and its allies, with a vote of 262 to 159. Following its prior approval by the Senate, President Donald Trump signed the legislation into law on September 18. This measure, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, represents the most substantial parliamentary action against Moscow since Trump returned to office.

The new law targets Russia's energy and defense sectors, key government officials, and President Vladimir Putin himself. Crucially, it authorizes the U.S. administration to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the top five importers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India, provided these nations do not meet specific reduction criteria. Furthermore, the legislation creates a legal framework to strike against Russia's 'shadow fleet' of tankers, which has been instrumental in circumventing international energy sanctions.

While Democrats supported the aid to Ukraine, initial concerns existed regarding the delegation of sweeping tariff powers to the President. The legislation comes ahead of upcoming diplomatic discussions, including a scheduled meeting between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.