RismadarVoice Reporters
September 19, 2026
US President Donald Trump has signed into law a sweeping sanctions package aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine.
The White House confirmed that Trump signed the legislation, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, on Friday, September 18. The law expands sanctions, tariffs and other restrictions targeting Russia while extending existing sanctions on Iran.
The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, senior officials, financial institutions and the so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers used to circumvent existing sanctions.
It also gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and gas. Major buyers, including India and China, could potentially be affected by the provisions.
The measure was approved by the US House of Representatives on Wednesday by 262 votes to 159, after previously passing the Senate by a wide margin.
The new law also provides for sanctions against foreign individuals, companies and networks accused of supporting Russia’s military activities or helping Moscow evade existing restrictions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had welcomed the congressional action, describing the sanctions legislation as an important tool for increasing pressure on Moscow and supporting diplomatic efforts to end the war.
India, one of Russia’s major energy customers, has been placed under particular scrutiny because of its continued purchases of Russian crude. Reuters reported that Russian oil accounts for more than 40 per cent of India’s crude imports, creating potential economic and diplomatic complications for New Delhi.
Trump’s signing of the legislation comes after months of delays and debate over the extent of presidential authority over sanctions and tariffs.
