Trump signs sweeping Russia-Iran sanctions law, gets power to impose up to 100 % tariff
Babushahi Bureau
Washington DC (US), September 19, 2026: US President Donald Trump has signed into law a sweeping sanctions package targeting Russia and Iran, expanding Washington’s ability to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine and giving the President authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on certain countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and gas or help evade US sanctions.
Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on Friday, September 18, according to the White House. The legislation expands statutory sanctions, tariffs and prohibitions against Russia while extending existing sanctions on Iran.
The law was sent to Trump after the US House of Representatives passed it 262-159 on September 16. The Senate had previously approved the legislation with bipartisan support. The House vote included support from 58 Democrats, despite concerns among some lawmakers about the broad tariff powers being granted to the President.
The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, political and military officials, financial networks and vessels involved in transporting Russian oil while circumventing existing sanctions. It also seeks to put greater pressure on the country’s so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers used to transport Russian crude.
A key provision gives the President authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from countries that are among the largest buyers of Russian oil or natural gas, as well as countries helping Russia evade sanctions. The law does not automatically impose the maximum tariff on any particular country; the White House has discretion over implementation and exemptions.
India and China could face particular exposure because both are major buyers of Russian crude. Reuters reported that India has warned that the new US tariff powers could affect bilateral relations and energy security. New Delhi has also said it remains focused on securing energy supplies through diversified sources.
The legislation is named after the late Republican Senator Lindsey O. Graham, who had been a prominent advocate of tougher economic measures against Moscow and died in July.
The Trump administration had previously been cautious about imposing additional sanctions on Russia. The shift followed repeated but unsuccessful efforts by Washington to advance negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. The new law is intended to increase economic pressure on Moscow by targeting revenues and international networks linked to its energy exports.
The legislation has also drawn criticism from lawmakers and trade experts who argue that it gives the President unusually broad authority over tariffs. Reuters reported that critics have raised concerns about the potential economic and diplomatic consequences for countries that could be targeted under the new provisions.
The law therefore expands the US sanctions framework beyond direct measures against Russia, potentially affecting major trading partners that continue to maintain significant energy ties with Moscow.