Tariff Powers Threaten to Sink Long-Delayed Russia Sanctions Bill in Congress

A Russia sanctions bill long championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham faces serious hurdles in Congress, as Democrats and some Republicans push back against new tariff powers the legislation would hand President Trump.

Tariff Provision Sparks Bipartisan Concern

The bill would authorize sanctions on Russian officials along with 100% tariffs on the five largest buyers of Russian oil and gas, or the top countries seen as helping Moscow dodge US sanctions. While no countries are named directly, the list would likely include China, India, and possibly Japan and parts of Europe. The tariff authority became more significant to the White House after the Supreme Court struck down Trump’s earlier reciprocal tariffs in February, prompting the administration to seek new trade powers elsewhere.

Waiver Clause and Iran Provisions Add Friction

The bill also lets the president waive Russia sanctions for national security reasons, a provision opposed by pro-Ukraine Democrats given Trump’s shifting stance on Moscow. It would extend Iran energy and weapons sanctions for five years, a condition Trump requested, and he has since pushed to add Iran tariffs despite minimal trade between the two countries.

Senate Momentum, House Uncertainty

The bill advanced through the Senate with strong bipartisan backing this week and could pass before the chamber’s recess. However, it faces steeper resistance in the House, which remains on recess until August 31. Senators Ron Wyden and Rand Paul, along with Representative Richard Neal, have criticized the tariff powers as inflationary and overly broad, while experts warn the precedent could disrupt the multinational coalition currently sanctioning Russia.