US Senate approves Graham bill on Russia sanctions
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
The U.S. Senate on Friday approved legislation named for the late Senator Lindsey Graham that would tighten sanctions on Russia’s energy revenues, voting 86-11. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, where a vote is not expected before early September due to a five-week summer recess. The measure also authorizes tariffs of up to 100% on goods from countries that are major buyers of Russian oil and gas.
Senate Passage
The bill passed 86-11, with senators rejecting an amendment that would have curtailed the president’s authority to impose tariffs on third countries buying Russian energy, according to 1news. The vote took place shortly before the start of a five-week congressional recess. Supporters say cutting off Russia’s energy income is critical to undermining its ability to finance the war in Ukraine, now in its fifth year.
Sanctions Scope
The legislation targets Russian President Vladimir Putin, other officials, oligarchs, financial institutions, and a so-called 'shadow fleet' used to evade oil export restrictions. It allows the U.S. president to levy tariffs of up to 100% on goods from nations that are major importers of Russian oil and gas, with an exception for countries that source less than 15% of their natural gas from Russia and are taking steps to reduce that import. A separate report from 1news indicated the bill also strengthens sanctions on Iran, though details were not immediately clear.
What's Next
The House of Representatives is scheduled to take up the bill after returning from recess in early September. It remains unclear whether the House will amend the legislation or push it through swiftly, given the strong bipartisan support in the Senate.
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US Senate approves Graham bill on Russia sanctions
