U.S. Senate passes Russia and Iran Sanctions Bill, which includes tariff authority
Bill passed Senate by a vote of 86-11.
August 7, 2026
The U.S. Senate today passed (by a vote of 86-11) the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which authorizes a range of sanctions on Russia, Russian individuals, vessels and entities, and certain other foreign persons, vessels, and entities. In addition, if enacted the legislation would authorize the imposition of:
- Up to 100% tariffs on the five largest purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas and five top facilitators of Russian oil sanctions evasion, with an exception for purchasers buying less than 15% of total Russian natural gas imports that are taking significant steps to reduce purchases; and
- Up to 500% tariffs on Russian-origin goods, subject to an exception for uranium used in U.S. nuclear reactors and for medical isotopes.
The bill would also extend the expiration date of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, which penalizes companies that invest in Iran’s energy sector from 2026 to 2031.
The bill now moves to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration following the August recess. If it passes the House, it will then move to the president for signature.