Trump signs new law expanding Russia sanctions, extending Iran sanctions

On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, named after the deceased senator. This legislation extends the statutory framework for sanctions, tariffs, and other restrictions on Russia, while also prolonging existing sanctions on Iran. The White House explained that the new law authorizes and expands economic measures against Russia, including statutory sanctions and tariff authorities.

The administration had previously indicated that the legislation would bolster the president's capacity to exert pressure on Russia for a negotiated resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, and it extends the Iran Sanctions Act for an additional five years. With Trump's signature, the measure becomes binding law, converting the approved congressional bill into enforceable regulation.

The White House has not disclosed which specific provisions of the sanctions package will take effect immediately. The bill was passed in Congress on Wednesday, receiving 262 votes in favor and 259 against. It had already secured passage in the Senate in August. The sanctions target Russia's energy and defense sectors, as well as its "shadow fleet" of tankers that circumvent existing sanctions, aiming to limit Moscow's financial resources to sustain its ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.

Additionally, the legislation would impose sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putin, several high-ranking Kremlin officials, Russian financial institutions, and state-owned enterprises. Furthermore, it would empower President Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on consumers of Russian energy, including nations like China and India, to diminish their reliance on Russian oil and gas supplies.