US Senate passes Russia sanctions bill that seeks 100% tariffs on India, China and others

Mangalore Today News Network

Washington, Aug. 8, 2026: The US Senate on Friday overwhelmingly approved legislation imposing tougher sanctions on Russia and targeting major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China, in an effort to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 passed by an 86-11 vote. The bipartisan measure, named after the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, also extends sanctions on Iran and gives President Donald Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported from countries among the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. India and China are among the countries that could face the tariffs under the legislation. The measure also provides for sanctions against Russian officials, oligarchs, financial institutions and entities involved in helping Russia evade sanctions. The legislation would also extend the Iran Sanctions Act through 2031, maintaining restrictions on companies investing in Iran’s energy and weapons sectors. The bill was championed by Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal. Graham died last month after spending more than a year pushing for tougher sanctions against Russia. Following his death, lawmakers moved to advance the legislation as part of efforts to honour his legacy and support Ukraine.

“This bill forces those primary countries keeping Russia’s economy afloat to make a simple yet critical choice,” said Darline Graham, Graham’s sister, who was appointed to succeed him in the Senate.

Blumenthal said Graham would be “proud” of the Senate’s action and described the sanctions and tariffs as a means of putting pressure on countries supporting Russia’s war effort.

However, some Democrats have raised concerns that the legislation would give Trump broad new tariff powers. Critics argue that the measure could be used to expand the administration’s trade tariffs and potentially fuel wider trade disputes.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration after the chamber returns from its August recess.