Trump signs sweeping Russia sanctions bill

September 18, 2026

President Donald Trump has signed comprehensive sanctions legislation targeting Russia's economy, particularly focusing on countries that purchase Russian oil and gas. The bill, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham who died in July 2026, authorizes tariffs up to 100% on the top five buyers of Russian energy—primarily China and India—while also targeting Iran's energy and weapons sectors. The legislation includes exemptions for nations importing less than 15% of their natural gas from Russia if they are actively reducing dependence, and imposes sanctions on Putin, Russian officials, financial institutions, and Russia's shadow tanker fleet.

Who is affected

China and India (top purchasers of Russian oil and gas)
Turkey and the European Union (smaller-scale Russian energy importers)
Russia, including President Vladimir Putin, senior Russian government officials, Russian banks and financial institutions
Russia's "shadow fleet" of tankers
Iran's energy and weapons sectors
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukraine
Countries importing less than 15% of natural gas from Russia

What action is being taken

President Trump is signing the sanctions bill into law, which authorizes levying tariffs of up to 100% on top Russian oil and gas purchasers.

Why it matters

This legislation represents a significant escalation in economic pressure on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. By targeting major purchasers like China and India, which together account for 87% of Russian crude exports, the sanctions aim to severely restrict Russia's energy revenue that funds its war effort. The bill also honors Senator Graham's legacy as one of Ukraine's fiercest Congressional allies and demonstrates continued U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine through economic warfare against Russia.

What's next

Ukrainian President Zelensky has called for full and swift implementation of the law's provisions to honor Senator Graham's memory.

Read full article from source: BBC