Trump Signs Russia-Iran Sanctions Act, Authorises Up To 100% Tariffs On Russian Oil Buyers Including India

On September 18, US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a piece of legislation that broadens sanctions on Moscow and Tehran while empowering the administration to impose significant tariffs on major purchasers of Russian energy. The Act, which consolidates existing sanctions on Iran, was signed after being passed unanimously by both chambers of the US Congress.

The legislation grants President Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported from nations ranked among the top five global consumers of Russian crude oil or natural gas in the twelve months preceding the law's enforcement. However, this provision does not automatically mandate a 100% tariff on all energy importers. Rather, the administration's decision regarding targeted countries, tariff rates, and potential exemptions remains discretionary.

The Act specifically targets Russia's energy network and Iran's energy and weapons sectors. It extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 by five years, continuing to restrict economic transactions associated with Iran's energy and defense industries. The Trump administration has expressed support for the measure, arguing that heightened economic pressure could prompt Russia to engage in talks concerning the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

Additionally, the administration has endorsed the continuance of Iran-related sanctions, citing apprehensions over Tehran's nuclear program and its backing of extremist organizations.

The Senate gave the bill its approval with a 86-11 vote in August, while the House passed it with a margin of 262-159 on September 16. The legislation is named after former Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of its principal advocates.