US against the "Shadow Fleet": Sanctions Law Approved - Will Strangle Russia's Economy

The US House of Representatives approved a broad bill imposing economic sanctions and tariffs on Russia, aiming to undermine its ability to fund the war in Ukraine. The law, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, will allow President Trump to impose 100% tariffs on the top five importers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India, while also extending and tightening sanctions against Iran.

The US House of Representatives approved a broad bill allowing the imposition of economic sanctions and tariffs against Russia, as part of an effort to impact its economy and ability to fund the war in Ukraine. The bill, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham who initiated and promoted it, was approved by a vote of 262 in favor to 159 against. According to the proposal, sanctions will be imposed on Russian officials, banks, and its "shadow fleet," and President Donald Trump will be able to impose 100% tariffs on the top five importers of Russian oil or gas, including China and India. The proposal will be brought for approval and signature by Trump, who has signaled he will sign it. Despite strong bipartisan support for punishing Russia, 152 Democrats opposed the legislation, arguing it grants too much new tariff authority to a president who has repeatedly bypassed Congress on trade issues. The legislation includes a five-year extension of sanctions targeting Iran's energy and weapons sectors, reflecting congressional concern over the close military relations between Moscow and Tehran.