On Friday, August 7th, 2026, the US Senate overwhelmingly approved a comprehensive sanctions package aimed at curbing Russia's energy revenues. The bipartisan bill passed with a vote of 86-11 and targets Russian officials, oligarchs, financial institutions, and the so-called shadow fleet used to evade sanctions on Moscow's oil exports.

The legislation empowers US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports, including gas and oil. It also allows for tariffs of up to 100% on goods from major purchasers of Russian energy exports, such as China and India. Additionally, the sanctions expand to cover older, reflagged oil tankers that Russia employs to bypass existing restrictions.

If enacted into law, the sanctions would directly target Russian President Vladimir Putin and other top officials. The bill includes waiver authority for the president to lift sanctions if deemed in the national interest.

Named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11th after more than a year of advocacy for the bill, the legislation reflects the most significant US Senate action to date in shifting the dynamics of the ongoing conflict involving Russia. Shortly before his death, Graham reached an agreement with the White House on a revised version of the bill, which also extends sanctions authority to restrict funding for Iran's energy and weapons sectors.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where a vote is expected no earlier than early September due to the congressional summer recess.

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