US House advances bill allowing Trump to impose tariffs on countries buying Russian oil
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The US House of Representatives has advanced legislation that would give President Donald Trump expanded powers to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that purchase Russian oil and gas, including India and China.
The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 cleared a key procedural vote on Tuesday evening by 214-211, with two Democrats joining Republicans. The House is expected to hold a final vote on Wednesday before beginning an early recess on Thursday. If approved, the bill would go to Trump for his signature.
The US Senate passed the legislation on August 7 by an 86-11 vote.
The bill would impose sanctions on Russia’s leadership, energy and defence sectors and its so-called “shadow fleet” of vessels accused of helping Moscow circumvent sanctions on oil shipments. It would also authorise Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil.
The Senate version does not name specific countries, instead referring to the five largest importers of Russian oil and gas by volume. India and China are among those identified as potential targets. An amendment proposed by Representative Steny Hoyer would specifically name 10 countries, including India, China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Singapore, Slovakia and the United Arab Emirates.
The legislation has divided House Democrats. Gregory Meeks, Don Beyer and Richard Neal have opposed expanding presidential tariff powers, arguing that the bill does not make sanctions against Russia mandatory and could raise prices for Americans.
Some Republicans have also opposed continued US involvement in Ukraine, making Democratic support important for the legislation’s passage.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged US lawmakers to pass the bill, arguing that increased economic pressure on Russia could help end the war. Supporters say restricting Russian oil revenues would reduce Moscow’s resources for its military campaign.