The US Senate has passed a bill imposing 100 percent tariffs on major nations that import Russian oil and gas. The 86–11 vote on Friday sends the measure to the House of Representatives, where lawmakers will not vote until at least early September because of the congressional summer recess.
The legislation, called the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, also targets clandestine maritime networks allegedly used to evade Western embargoes. It is intended to reduce revenue supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine, but it has not yet become law.
At a glance:
- Senate vote: 86–11
- Tariff level: 100 percent on major nations importing Russian oil and gas
- Next step: House of Representatives
- House timing: No vote before early September
What the bill would do
The package focuses on Russia’s energy revenues by setting 100 percent tariffs on major countries importing Russian oil and gas. It also gives attention to clandestine maritime networks used to bypass Western embargoes.
Related coverage: European Commission advises suspension of methane fines during energy supply challenges.
The measure is designed to increase economic pressure on Moscow amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Its provisions would not take effect through the Senate vote alone; the House must first consider the bill.
Why the House vote matters
The bill now moves to the 435-seat House, where several members have already raised concerns. Democratic Representatives Gregory Meeks and Don Beyer called the version passed by the Senate “unacceptable” and warned that President Donald Trump could use the new tariff powers without restraint.
Because of the summer recess, a House vote will not take place until at least early September. The reservations in the lower chamber mean the bill’s final passage remains unresolved.
More context: Ukraine Disrupts Russian Fuel and Electricity to Crimea, Deepening Energy Crisis.
Responses from US allies and Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the Senate action, saying strong US pressure and sanctions would help end Russia’s war against Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also welcomed the vote and called for measures to drain Russia’s ability to continue the war.
The Russian Embassy in Washington, DC, had condemned the legislation in a statement the previous month. It warned that sanctions on Russia and its trading partners could worsen energy constraints and raise US gas prices ahead of the midterm elections.
The bill’s namesake
The legislation is named for Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on July 11 and had strongly advocated new sanctions against Moscow. The day before his death, Graham and a bipartisan group of senators said they had secured the White House’s approval for new sanctions on Russian hydrocarbons.
Graham’s sister, Darline Graham Nordone, who was appointed to fill his Senate seat, said after Friday’s vote that the bill “hits Putin where it hurts.” The measure had previously been blocked by President Trump.
Questions readers ask
Has the sanctions bill become law?
No. The Senate passed it by 86–11, but the bill must still pass the House of Representatives.
When could the House vote?
A House vote will not take place until at least early September because Congress is on its summer recess.
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