The US Senate has passed a new bill that could pave the way for import tariffs of up to 100% on goods coming from five countries, including India and China, which are among the largest buyers of Russian crude oil. The measure cleared the Senate with an 86–11 vote.
For the proposal to become law, it must be approved by the US House of Representatives and signed by the President. The bill is expected to be sent to the House for consideration when it reconvenes on August 31.
According to the report, the legislation would grant President Donald Trump the authority to impose the tariffs on imports from the top five countries importing Russian crude. US lawmakers have argued that these countries should choose between purchasing discounted Russian oil and maintaining trade access to the American market.
The bill has been renamed the “Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026” and is aimed at penalising countries that continue trade with Russia in a way that supports funding for the Ukraine war. It also provides for sanctions targeting Russian leaders and officials, wealthy individuals, and financial institutions.
Alongside measures against Russia, the bill would extend the 1996 Iran sanctions law until 2031, and authorise penalties for companies investing in Iran’s energy sector.
