US signs sweeping Russia sanctions package over Ukraine war
Bipartisan law targets Kremlin funding channels and threatens tariffs on top buyers of Russian energy
President Trump signed the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a rare bipartisan Ukraine-related package that hits Russian banks, energy, defence and the oil “shadow fleet,” and authorises tariffs of up to 100% on the largest buyers of Russian oil and gas.
The White House signed into law a major sanctions package aimed at cutting Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine. Known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, the bill advanced with unusual bipartisan support after more than a year of negotiations. It targets President Vladimir Putin, senior officials and oligarchs, Russian banks, energy and defence industries, and tankers used to move Russian oil around earlier sanctions. A headline provision lets the US impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest buyers of Russian oil and gas — a step widely expected to pressure China and India hardest. The measure also extends related Iran energy and weapons sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the legislation an “extremely powerful tool.” The signing comes about a week before Trump is due to host Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington.