Washington, D.C. — Ekhbary News Agency
A bipartisan coalition of senators has introduced a significant bill designed to impose stringent sanctions on key Russian figures and levy substantial tariffs against major purchasers of Russian oil. This legislative effort, strongly advocated by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, aims to intensify financial pressure on the Kremlin to conclude its ongoing four-year conflict in Ukraine. The White House has already signaled its backing for this measure, which targets Russia's vital energy sector.
New Sanctions Target Russian Economy and Allies
The "Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026" specifically mandates sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, his senior deputies, the Russian military, and state-owned banks and energy companies. Furthermore, it prohibits Americans from engaging in business with the Russian government or its energy sector and from purchasing Russian debt. The bill also imposes tariffs up to 100% on the top five buyers of Russian oil, which currently include China, India, Slovakia, Hungary, and Azerbaijan. Similarly, leading natural gas importers like China, France, Belgium, Japan, and Hungary would face similar tariffs, though countries whose purchases constitute less than 15% of Russia's total natural gas exports are exempt. For what it's worth, this legislation represents a robust push to compel global energy shifts away from Moscow.
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Graham's Legacy Drives Legislative Push
Senator Graham, who died suddenly last Saturday shortly after returning from a trip to Kyiv where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, had finalized the bill's text prior to his passing. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut emphasized that passing this legislation now would serve as a fitting tribute to Graham's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty. Alabama Republican Senator Katie Britt echoed this sentiment, stating that Graham believed this bill's enactment would be his most consequential career achievement. With 26 cosponsors already, and more expected, the bill's momentum is considerable. Ohio Republican Representative Mike Turner expressed hope for its swift passage, viewing it as a cornerstone of Graham's legacy, while Texas Republican Representative Michael McCaul announced plans to introduce a corresponding House version, urging congressional approval in Graham's honor.
