- The Senate passed a Russia sanctions bill named for the late Senator Lindsey Graham by an 86-11 vote, with Senator Rand Paul as the sole Republican opponent.
- The bill, which aims to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, includes provisions for 100% tariffs on countries like India and China.
- During the debate, Senators Wyden and Paul opposed the 100% tariff provisions, warning that it could hurt American interests.
- The bill was endorsed by President Trump earlier this year and was introduced in April 2025.
- The Senate advanced the bill on July 28 during Zelenskyy's visit to the Capitol.
- The bill now heads to the House, which may consider it after recess at the end of August.
The Senate has advanced a sanctions bill named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, aiming to impose 100% tariffs on India, China, and other nations for their continued trade with Russia.34
The bill, passed by an 86-12 vote, seeks to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.
Senators Rob Wyden and Rand Paul voiced strong opposition to the tariff provisions, with Paul stating that such measures would be akin to America "shooting itself in the foot."
Wyden echoed these concerns, warning that the tariffs could damage U.S. interests and relationships with key partners.
The legislation, which honors Graham's legacy, would impose sanctions on Russian officials and allow tariffs on countries that are major importers of Russian oil, including India, which is the second-largest buyer of Russian crude oil.
The bill's advancement comes as part of a broader effort to punish Russia and its allies, with support from both parties in the Senate.
“This bill forces those primary countries keeping Russia’s economy afloat to make a simple yet critical choice – a choice between doing business with America or buying cheap Russian energy,” said Darline Graham, the late senator’s sister.
The measure now heads to the House for consideration, where some Democrats have raised concerns about the potential for expanded presidential tariff powers.9
As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the implications of this legislation could significantly impact U.S. foreign relations and economic strategies moving forward.
“The bill, renamed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia Act, passed 86-11, with Rand Paul as the sole Republican opponent. It would impose tariffs up to 500% on Russian exports and up to 100% on goods from top importers of Russian oil and gas, including India.”
The Guardian
