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 existing oil export restrictions.

The legislation grants US President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports, including gas and oil. Additionally, it allows tariffs of up to 100% on goods from major purchasers of Russian energy, such as China and India. The sanctions also extend to older, reflagged oil tankers that Russia employs to circumvent current US sanctions.

If enacted into law, Russian President Vladimir Putin and other top officials would be directly targeted by the sanctions. The bill includes waiver provisions enabling the president to lift sanctions if deemed in the national interest.

The bill is named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11th after more than a year of advocating for the measure. Shortly before his death, Graham announced an agreement with the White House on a revised version of the text, which also extends sanctions authority related to Iran's energy and weapons sectors.

The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives, where a vote is expected no earlier than early September due to the congressional summer recess. This move represents the most significant Senate action during President Trump's second term to influence the ongoing conflict involving Russia.

Sources

Euronews