'Time to act is now' — US Senate passes long-delayed Russia sanctions bill targeting energy buyers

The Senate vote clears the way for House consideration as early as next month.

On August 7, the United States Senate passed a long-overdue bill imposing stringent sanctions on countries importing Russian oil and gas, a move aimed at curbing Moscow's finances to support its war against Ukraine. This legislation, finally cleared for consideration in the House, received a resounding 86-11 vote. The bill's passage comes as a direct response to simmering tensions following President Donald Trump's fluctuating stance on Russia's conflict with Ukraine.

The bill's origin can be traced back to late Senator Lindsey Graham, who brokered a deal with the White House, securing crucial support from the Trump administration. Graham's involvement was instrumental in shaping the final version of the legislation.

According to Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the bill sends a clear, unambiguous message to Russian President Vladimir Putin through a language he understands best - pressure. She urged the House to swiftly send the bill to the President's desk, emphasizing that each day of delay allows Putin to profit further from energy sales, financing his ongoing aggression against Ukraine.

Responding to the Senate's action, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude, highlighting the legislation's role in amplifying international pressure on Russia to cease its war efforts.

The revised legislation differs significantly from its predecessor, proposing tariffs of up to 100% on the world's five largest purchasers of Russian energy, rather than the initial proposal's blanket 500% tariff. The maximum tariff would also apply to the five countries most involved in assisting Russia in evading oil sanctions. Imports from these nations would be scrutinized every 180 days to determine eligibility for the tariff exemption.

Currently, China, India, and Turkey are identified as the largest buyers of Russian oil, while the European Union, China, and Turkey are among the primary importers of Russian natural gas. The bill's scope extends beyond individual countries, targeting key entities such as the Russian Central Bank, Sberbank, Gazprombank, and major Russian state-owned energy companies.

Additionally, it aims to curb Russia's shadow fleet - a fleet used for continued oil exports despite Western sanctions - and China's financial support for Russia's defense industry.

Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.