The US House of Representatives has passed a major Russia sanctions bill that could significantly expand Washington’s economic pressure on Moscow and countries continuing to purchase Russian energy.
The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 was approved by the House on September 16 by a vote of 262-159. The legislation had already cleared the US Senate with an 86-11 vote in August and has now been sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.
The legislation targets several parts of Russia’s economic and financial network, including Russian officials, banks, financial institutions and the so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to transport Russian energy while attempting to evade existing sanctions. Russia’s energy and defence-related sectors are also among the areas targeted by the broader sanctions package.
One of the most significant provisions gives the US president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that are among the largest purchasers of Russian-origin crude oil or natural gas. The measure also covers countries involved in facilitating the evasion of sanctions against Russian oil.
The legislation is particularly relevant for major Russian energy customers, including India and China. However, the bill does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on these countries. Rather, it provides the president with authority to apply such duties under the conditions specified in the legislation.
The bill also includes provisions targeting Russian officials, oligarchs, financial institutions and vessels connected to sanctions evasion. In addition, it extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2031, bringing Iran-related measures into the legislation.
The House vote followed more than a year of negotiations surrounding the sanctions package, which was championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham. The legislation received support from lawmakers in both parties, although it also faced opposition, particularly over the expanded tariff powers that would be available to the White House.
With the House vote complete, the legislation has cleared Congress and is now awaiting presidential action. As of September 17, reports indicate that Trump is expected to sign the bill, but it should not yet be described as enacted law until the signature takes place.
The legislation could have wider implications for international energy trade, US-Russia relations and countries that continue to import Russian oil and gas. Its potential impact on India will depend on how the tariff authority is ultimately exercised by the US administration.