US Congress passes sweeping Russia sanctions bill

On Wednesday, US lawmakers passed a sweeping sanctions bill targeting Russia in response to its ongoing war in Ukraine. The Republican-led House of Representatives approved the package by a vote of 262-159, sending the legislation to President Donald Trump for his expected signature. The bill, which passed the Senate last month with an 86-11 vote, targets Russia's energy and defense sectors, President Vladimir Putin and other senior officials, as well as Moscow's shadow fleet of tankers.

It also grants Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, potentially including China and India.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the legislation's passage as "symbolic" and emphasized the need for strong sanctions to bring Russia to the negotiating table for peace. The bill would also target companies and foreign actors supporting Russia's military and extend sanctions involving Iran. India, a key strategic partner for Moscow, stated it would continue buying oil through diversified sourcing and market dynamics.

The bill's sweeping tariff powers created a rare split among Democrats, who generally support Ukraine but have been cautious about giving Trump greater trade authority. Some Democrats, including the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, criticized the bill as "deeply flawed," arguing that it maximizes Trump's authority to impose new import taxes while minimizing any obligation to actually enforce sanctions on Russia.

Despite opposition from some Republicans, the measure received support from Democrats and pro-Ukraine activists. Supporters argue that economic pressure is crucial, as Russia's full-scale invasion has been grinding through its fifth year without a peace settlement in sight. The House vote came just before lawmakers were set to leave for campaigning ahead of November's midterm elections.