Washington: President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping sanctions package targeting Russia and Iran, giving the administration new levers to impose heavy tariffs on states that continue to import Russian petroleum and gas.
Legislation Overview
The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 (H.R. 5334) became law on September 18, 2026. According to the White House, the bill reinforces the existing sanctions regime against Moscow while expanding punitive measures aimed at Tehran.
Tariff Ceiling of Up to 100 %
Maximum duty authority
One of the centerpiece provisions authorises the president to levy duties of up to 100 % on goods imported from any nation that ranks among the top five purchasers of Russian crude oil or natural gas during the twelve‑month window preceding the law’s activation.
The clause could affect major energy buyers such as India and China, although the statute does not automatically trigger a full‑tariff on either country. The ultimate decision – and the exact rate – remains at the president’s discretion.
Possible Gas‑Import Exemption
A specific carve‑out applies to natural‑gas imports. A country may be exempt from gas‑related duties if its imports of Russian gas represent less than 15 % of Russia’s total gas exports for the reference period and if it has taken demonstrable steps to curb those imports.
The act also empowers the president to waive selected sanctions when particular conditions are met.
Targeting Russia’s ‘Shadow Fleet’
The bill widens the scope of action against Russia’s energy and defence networks. It introduces sanctions aimed at individuals and entities linked to the so‑called “shadow fleet” – a web of vessels and operators accused of ferrying Russian energy supplies or evading international restrictions.
Companies tied to Russia’s defence sector or those facilitating sanction‑evasion could also face new punitive measures under the expanded framework.
Implementation Timeline
The legislation is slated to become effective within 30 days of Trump’s signature, meaning its provisions could start influencing trade flows for countries that still rely heavily on Russian energy.
By granting the United States the ability to impose near‑total tariffs and by broadening the sanctions net around Russia’s energy, defence and evasion apparatus, the law adds a potent new layer of pressure on Moscow and its trading partners.
