US President Donald Trump has signed into law a sweeping new sanctions package targeting Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine, with measures aimed at putting greater pressure on Moscow’s energy revenues and other sources of funding.
Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on September 18, following its passage by Congress. The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, its political leadership and the so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers used to transport Russian oil while circumventing existing sanctions.
The law is named after the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who was one of its strongest supporters before his death in July. The bill had been under consideration for more than a year and passed the Senate in August before receiving strong bipartisan support in the House earlier this week.
One of the most significant provisions gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on the five largest buyers of Russian oil and gas. China and India, the two biggest buyers of Russian crude, are expected to face the greatest exposure to the measure.
The legislation also provides for sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior officials, oligarchs, banks and other financial institutions, while targeting networks and vessels involved in helping Russia evade existing restrictions.
The new law comes as Trump continues to pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Earlier this month, his special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.
Zelenskyy welcomed the legislation, describing it as a powerful tool for increasing pressure on Russia and encouraging a path towards negotiations. He had previously lobbied US lawmakers to support stronger sanctions against Moscow.
The legislation could also affect US relations with countries that continue to purchase Russian energy. India has defended its right to secure energy supplies for its population and has said it remains committed to ensuring energy security.
The timing is also significant for US-China relations. Trump is scheduled to host Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House on September 24, less than a week after signing the sanctions law.
The legislation represents a major new US effort to increase economic pressure on Russia while the Trump administration continues to pursue diplomatic efforts to end the war.
KIGALI TIMES