US Congress passes sweeping Russia sanctions bill

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives in Washington approved a comprehensive bill on Wednesday, imposing stringent sanctions on Russia in response to its ongoing war in Ukraine. The legislation, which passed by a margin of 262-159, represents the harshest US legislative action against Moscow since the return of President Donald Trump to office.

After months of deliberation, the bill is now poised to be signed into law by President Trump, who has previously expressed his intention to do so. The measure targets Russia's energy and defense sectors, key officials, and the country's so-called "shadow fleet" of tankers that circumvent Western sanctions. It also empowers the President to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, including potential buyers like China and India.

However, this broad tariff authority has sparked a divided response among Democrats, who generally support Ukraine but have been cautious about granting Trump increased trade authority. Some Democrats, including Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, have criticized the bill as "deeply flawed," arguing that the secondary tariff provisions should be removed.

Despite the controversy, the bill has garnered broad support, with dozens of Democrats backing it alongside a minority of Republicans, who have raised concerns about sanctions on free-market or non-interventionist grounds. Pro-Ukraine activists have welcomed the passage of the legislation, citing Russia's persistent military aggression and the absence of a peace agreement after five years of conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had urged Congress to act, emphasizing the need for stronger economic pressure to compel Moscow toward negotiations. Additionally, India stated its commitment to continuing oil purchases from Russia, citing diversified sourcing and evolving market dynamics. The legislation also extends sanctions to entities supporting Russia's military and extends to Iran.

Despite Republican Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden death in July, his push for the bill continued until its passage on Wednesday. The bill's quick signing and enactment are expected to put significant financial strain on the Kremlin's war efforts, according to Ukrainian energy lobby group Razom We Stand.