The Senate advanced the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, granting the administration new tariff powers.
The US Senate overwhelmingly approved the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a bill designed to increase economic pressure on Russia and its allies. The legislation, named in honor of the late Senator Lindsey O. Graham, provides the administration with the authority to impose high tariffs on Russian imports and the top five purchasers of Russian energy. Specifically, the bill allows for tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russian goods and up to 100 percent on major energy buyers like China and India. President Trump requested the inclusion of Iran in the bill to strengthen the sanctions. While the bill received bipartisan support, some lawmakers expressed concern over the potential economic impact on American consumers and allies. Critics argue that the massive tariff authority granted to the administration could be costly for US businesses. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for further deliberation after the summer recess.