Trump's Next TACO Test Over Russia Comes With His Own Signature
Congress has handed Trump a sledgehammer to swing at Russia's economic lifelines. He might use it to tap in a few nails.
The Senate and House of Representatives recently passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a landmark sanctions and tariffs bill aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia. With bipartisan support, the bill is now on its way to President Donald Trump's desk. The legislation targets Russian banks, officials, and the country's shadow fleet, while also imposing tariffs on the main buyers of Russian oil and gas, up to 100 percent.
Supporters of the bill believe it will serve as a litmus test for Trump's willingness to enforce economic sanctions on Russia. The act grants the White House the power to apply tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russian goods, with secondary tariffs on oil buyers reaching 100 percent, though Trump has the discretion to set the rates.
Section 115 allows the president to waive any sanctions, restrictions, or duties if he certifies it is in the national interest. This leaves Trump with significant control over how he uses this legislation against Russia. Trump has a history of talking tough on Russia, yet often backing down when the costs of enforcing sanctions become apparent.
If he chooses to use this bill to target Russia's economic lifelines, it will demonstrate his commitment to punishing Moscow.
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