US Congress Passes Russia Sanctions Bill, Granting Trump 100% Tariff Authority on India and China

Public Lokpal
September 17, 2026

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by a vote of 262–159, sending the major legislative package to President Donald Trump’s desk.

The bill grants the U.S. President sweeping secondary powers to levy up to 100% tariffs on foreign nations that continue importing crude oil and natural gas from Russia.

While targeting the five largest global energy buyers by volume, lawmakers and analysts have explicitly highlighted major emerging economies like India and China as primary targets of the legislation.

Supporters argue the measure creates vital economic leverage to restrict the funding of Moscow's war in Ukraine.

However, the bill has sparked intense domestic debate, with critics expressing strong concern over granting the executive branch unchecked tariff authority that could strain diplomatic ties with key allies and elevate consumer costs.

Exemptions are included for nations importing minimal Russian gas or actively reducing supplies, alongside a presidential national interest waiver.