US Prepares Powerful Strike on Russia and Iran — Senate Gives Green Light

The US Senate overwhelmingly approved (86-11) a sanctions bill proposed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, imposing tough restrictions on Russia and Iran. The document includes tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the five largest buyers of Russian oil and gas, primary sanctions against Vladimir Putin and his inner circle, and tariffs of up to 500% on direct imports from Russia. Separately, it proposes extending the 1996 Iran Sanctions Act until 2031. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives.

The US Senate overwhelmingly approved (86-11) a sanctions bill proposed by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. The document significantly increases pressure on Russia and extends restrictions on Iran. Specifically, the bill gives the US president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the five countries that are the largest buyers of Russian oil and gas. It also introduces primary sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, his inner circle, Russian banks, and state energy projects. The restrictions will also affect the so-called shadow fleet—a network of tankers used to transport Russian oil in circumvention of Western sanctions. For direct imports from Russia, tariffs of up to 500% are envisaged. Separately, the Senate supported extending the 1996 Iran Sanctions Act until 2031, which will maintain restrictions on the Islamic Republic's energy and defense sectors. The bill now must be considered by the House of Representatives, after which it will require the US president's signature.