US House to take up Graham's Russia sanctions bill next week

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to begin deliberating legislation spearheaded by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, which aims to impose severe tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas. Scheduled for a Rules Committee meeting on September 14th, the bill passed the Senate in August and could face tougher opposition in the House.

Democratic representatives Don Beyer, Gregory Meeks, and Richard Neal have criticized the bill, arguing it lacks mandatory sanctions on Russia and would grant President Donald Trump excessive authority over tariffs. Despite their opposition, the Democrats emphasize their unwavering support for Ukraine and call on President Trump to expand sanctions on entities fueling Russia's war efforts without further delay.

The bill targets five largest oil and gas importers of Russia, including China, India, and Turkey, with the list to be reviewed every 180 days. Countries importing less than 15% of Russia's natural gas and decreasing imports would be exempt. The legislation would also impose sanctions on Russia's President Vladimir Putin, key financial institutions, and state-owned companies, along with foreign entities supporting Russia's defense and energy sectors.

Supporters argue the bill aims to increase pressure on Moscow and show continued U.S. backing for Ukraine, following Senator Graham's death in July.