Washington: US President Donald Trump has signed a new law expanding sanctions and economic measures against Russia and Iran, giving the US administration broader powers to impose tariffs on countries that continue purchasing Russian oil and gas.
The ‘Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026’ was signed into law by Trump on September 18, 2026. According to the White House, the legislation, identified as H.R. 5334, strengthens the existing sanctions framework against Russia while extending measures targeting Iran.
Up to 100% Tariff Provision
One of the key provisions of the new law allows the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported from certain countries purchasing Russian crude oil or natural gas.
The provision could potentially affect major Russian energy buyers, including India and China. However, the law does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on either country. The final decision on whether to impose tariffs, and at what level, rests with the US President.
The measure applies to countries that were among the top five purchasers of Russian crude oil or natural gas, based on total volumes during the 12-month period preceding the implementation of the law.
Gas Importers Could Get an Exemption
The legislation also contains a provision related specifically to Russian natural gas. A country may qualify for an exemption from gas-related tariffs if its Russian gas imports accounted for less than 15% of Russia's total gas exports during the relevant period and it had taken significant steps to reduce its purchases of Russian gas.
The law also gives the President authority to waive certain sanctions under specified circumstances.
Russia's ‘Shadow Fleet’ Under the Scanner
The legislation expands the scope of measures against Russia's energy and defence-related networks. It includes provisions targeting individuals and entities associated with Russia's so-called ‘shadow fleet’—a network of vessels and related actors accused of helping transport Russian energy or circumvent international sanctions.
Companies and individuals linked to Russia's defence sector and those assisting in sanctions evasion may also face action under the expanded framework.
Law to Take Effect Within 30 Days
The new legislation will come into effect within 30 days of Trump's signing. Its implementation could therefore have implications for countries maintaining significant trade in Russian energy.
The law's tariff provisions give the US administration additional leverage over countries continuing to purchase Russian crude oil and natural gas, while its sanctions provisions further expand the measures targeting Russia's energy sector, defence-related partners and sanctions-evasion networks.
