US President Donald Trump has signed a major new law targeting Russia with additional economic restrictions. The legislation also extends existing US measures against Iran for another five years.
Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on September 18. The legislation had previously received support from both chambers of Congress.
The new law expands US Sanctions targeting Russia’s economy. It covers Russian officials, financial institutions and other entities linked to the Russian government.
The legislation also targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors. It includes measures against tankers used to move Russian energy while avoiding existing restrictions.
Up to 100% Tariffs on Russian Energy Buyers
One major provision gives the president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100%. These measures can apply to major foreign purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas.
The provisions focus on the five largest buyers of Russian energy under conditions set by the law. Major importers, including China and India, could therefore face additional trade pressure.
However, signing the legislation does not mean every possible tariff automatically applies to these countries immediately.
The law sets specific conditions for applying the measures. It also gives the president waiver authority under certain circumstances.
The administration had supported the legislation before its passage. It said the additional authorities could increase economic pressure on Russia during efforts to end the Ukraine war.
Iran Sanctions Extended Through 2031
The legislation also addresses existing US Sanctions against Iran.
It extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 for another five years. This keeps important US sanctions authorities in place through 2031.
Those authorities cover specified activities involving Iran’s energy sector and efforts related to certain weapons programmes.
US Congress Approved the Legislation
The House of Representatives approved the legislation on September 16 by a 262-159 vote. The Senate had earlier passed the measure by an 86-11 vote on August 7.
The legislation then went to Trump for his signature and became law on September 18.
The new Sanctions framework could have wider implications for international energy trade. Countries buying large quantities of Russian oil or gas could face additional US trade measures.
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Its practical impact will depend partly on how the administration uses the authorities provided by Congress. The implementation of tariff and waiver provisions will therefore be closely watched by major energy-importing countries.
