The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a sweeping sanctions and tariff bill aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine, sending the legislation to President Donald Trump for his signature.
The measure, known as the “Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026”, was approved by 262 votes to 159 on Wednesday. The Senate had passed the bill last month with strong bipartisan support.
The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, as well as its so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers accused of helping Moscow evade existing sanctions.
It also gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries such as China and India to discourage their continued reliance on Russian oil and gas, while extending sanctions against Iran.
READ ALSO:Â US House Votes to Limit Trump’s Iran War Powers
China’s Foreign Ministry said Beijing opposed what it described as the use of jurisdiction beyond national borders without a basis in international law or authorisation from the UN Security Council.
The bill, initially introduced by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and other senators in April 2025, faced opposition over the extent of the tariff powers it would grant the president.
Some Democrats argued that the legislation gives Trump excessive authority to impose tariffs, including against U.S. allies, while also allowing him to waive sanctions on grounds of national interest.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the bill contained loopholes that could limit its impact on Russia while giving Trump broad tariff powers.
The legislation nevertheless secured support from 58 Democrats, who joined most House Republicans in backing the measure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has urged Congress to approve the bill, describing its passage as important to efforts to increase pressure on Russia.
The measure represents the most significant Ukraine-related legislation passed by Congress since Trump returned to the White House and Republicans took control of both chambers in January 2025.
Supporters of the bill said its passage demonstrated continued U.S. backing for Ukraine and would increase economic pressure on Moscow.
