House passes Russia sanctions bill

On Thursday, the House of Representatives passed a comprehensive Russia sanctions bill, sending it to President Trump for signing. This legislation would significantly bolster economic pressure on Russia, while also granting Trump substantial authority to impose secondary tariffs. The proposed tariffs could reach up to 100% on purchases of Russian oil and gas.

Additionally, the bill aims to target Russia's "shadow fleet," the fleet of aging tankers that have been used to circumvent Western sanctions while exporting Russian oil. The bill received a vote of 262-159, with the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)'s name attached to it posthumously in honor of his pivotal role. The bill's passage defied the usual partisan divide on Russia and Ukraine issues, with Democratic leaders opposing it due to the increased tariff authority, while some Democrats supported it.

Republicans, particularly those in the isolationist faction, opposed the bill, fearing further U.S. involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The legislation, which has been in the works for over a year, initially faced opposition from the White House but was eventually secured after Graham negotiated with the administration. The Senate had previously passed the bill with broad bipartisan support after Trump gave it his approval.