Story perspectives

Senate Passes Graham Sanctions Bill, Tariffs Up to 100%

By Drooid · Sep 12, 2026, 3:17 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 86-11, sending it to the House.
Bill would let President Donald Trump impose up to 100% tariffs on five buyers of Russian oil and gas.
Democratic lawmakers say the tariff authority could raise energy costs for consumers.
Rep. Don Beyer, Rep. Gregory Meeks and Rep. Richard Neal condemned bill for tariff powers without mandating sanctions on Russia.

History

Historical Context

The Iran and Libya Sanctions Act of 1996, passed by the U.S. Congress, authorized secondary sanctions against firms dealing with Iran and Libya. The law ultimately listed over 300 foreign companies, compelling them to curtail $12 billion in annual trade with the sanctioned states. Similarly, the 2026 Lindsey O. Graham Act empowers President Donald Trump to levy up to 100% tariffs on five Russian oil and gas purchasers. Both statutes illustrate how Washington leverages economic pressure to curb adversarial energy revenues, foreshadowing heightened consumer price volatility and diplomatic friction.

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Story summary

Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 86-11, sending it to the House.
Bill would let President Donald Trump impose up to 100% tariffs on five buyers of Russian oil and gas.
Democratic lawmakers say the tariff authority could raise energy costs for consumers.
Rep. Don Beyer, Rep. Gregory Meeks and Rep. Richard Neal condemned bill for tariff powers without mandating sanctions on Russia.

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