House passes Russia sanctions bill, overcoming opposition from Democratic leaders
Key Points:
- The House passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 with a 262-159 vote, including support from 58 Democrats, despite concerns about expanding President Trump's tariff powers.
- The bill authorizes the president to impose tariffs up to 100% on the top five buyers of Russian oil or natural gas, with some exceptions, and extends sanctions on Iran's energy and weapons sectors at Trump's request.
- Democratic leaders opposed the bill, arguing that Trump has not demonstrated strength on Russia and warning that expanded tariff authority could raise costs for American families.
- Republicans highlighted the bill's support from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and emphasized tariffs as a crucial tool to enforce sanctions against Russia.
- The legislation now heads to President Trump's desk after previously passing the Senate with strong bipartisan backing, following extensive negotiations led by the late Senator Lindsey Graham.