US lawmakers pass bill giving Trump more power to sanction Russia and its enablers

Key Points:

• The US Congress passed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 with a 262-159 vote, granting President Donald Trump authority to raise tariffs on top buyers of Russian energy and impose further sanctions on the Kremlin.
• The bill mandates new sanctions on Russian political and military officials, foreign networks aiding Russia's war efforts, and targets Russia’s "shadow tanker" fleet, while allowing tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian energy, including China.
• The legislation faced opposition from some Democrats and Republican isolationists concerned about granting Trump excessive tariff powers, with senior Democrats warning it could harm American interests and allies.
• Supporters argued the bill is crucial to cutting off funding for Russia's war in Ukraine, with backing from Ukrainian officials and pro-Ukraine activists who see it as a necessary step before a difficult winter for Ukraine.
• The bill had previously passed the Senate overwhelmingly but faced a tougher challenge in the House, where narrow votes and party tensions highlighted divisions over the scope of presidential authority and US strategy on Russia.