On Friday, President Donald Trump signed into law H.R. 5334, officially titled the "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026." This legislation authorizes and expands statutory sanctions, tariffs, and prohibitions against Russia while extending existing sanctions on Iran.
The act is named after Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11, 2026, at the age of 71 due to an aortic dissection, just days after his birthday. Graham was a staunch advocate for imposing severe sanctions on Russia and a supporter of Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
Bipartisan Legislative Process
The legislative process was swift and bipartisan. The Senate approved the bill on August 7, with 86 votes in favor and 11 against. The House of Representatives passed it on September 16, with 262 in favor and 159 opposed, including 58 Democrats who joined the Republican majority, while seven Republicans voted against it. The bill reached the presidential desk on September 17, and Trump signed it the following day.
Details of the Sanctions
The law grants the president the authority to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian-origin goods at his discretion, meaning these measures are authorized but not automatically enforced. Furthermore, it establishes secondary tariffs up to 100% on products from the five countries that import the most Russian crude oil or natural gas and continue to make new purchases post-enactment.
China, as the leading importer of Russian energy, would be the most vulnerable to this pressure. The law also includes tariffs up to 100% for the top five enablers of Russian sanctions evasion.
Impact on Iran
Regarding Iran, the legislation extends and enhances existing restrictions on Tehran’s energy and arms sectors, aligning with the new sanctions against Iran announced by the Trump administration weeks prior.
The Significance of the Law
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) emphasized that Congress has granted the president the most significant tariff authority since 1974, framing the signing as a pressure tool to end the war in Ukraine. "The signing of the Lindsey O. Graham Act reflects the growing bipartisan recognition that tariffs are an effective tool to protect our economic and national security," stated the USTR in a release.
The agency also paid tribute to the late senator: "Senator Lindsey Graham was a patriot who understood that economic security is national security. This historic legislation in his name honors his legacy and cuts off vital resources that fuel this terrible war."
The law's approval comes amid a period of ambiguity in the Trump administration's stance toward Moscow. In March 2026, the White House temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian tankers, drawing criticism from European allies and lawmakers from both parties.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sanctions Law
What is the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026?
It is a law signed by President Trump that authorizes and expands sanctions and tariffs against Russia and extends existing sanctions on Iran, designed to apply economic pressure and end the war in Ukraine.
How does the law affect trade with Russia?
The law allows for tariffs up to 500% on Russian goods and up to 100% on goods from the top countries importing Russian oil or gas, aiming to curb Russian economic activities.
Why was the law named after Lindsey Graham?
The act honors Senator Lindsey Graham, who was a dedicated advocate for imposing stringent sanctions on Russia and supporting Ukraine, recognizing his significant contributions and legacy.