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A bipartisan Russia sanctions bill backed by President Donald Trump is facing growing resistance in Congress, with Democrats, some Republicans, and trade groups warning that it would grant the president sweeping new tariff authority and could raise inflation.
The legislation, championed for more than a year by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, would impose sanctions on Russian officials and authorize tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian oil and gas, as well as countries the Trump administration determines are helping Moscow evade U.S. sanctions. Potential targets could include China, India, Japan, and some European nations, although no countries are specifically named in the bill.
Trump recently endorsed the measure as his administration sought alternative trade tools after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down his reciprocal tariff policy earlier this year. The bill would also allow the president to waive Russia-related sanctions for unspecified national security reasons, a provision that has drawn criticism from pro-Ukraine lawmakers concerned about Trump's changing approach toward Russia and Ukraine.
In addition, the proposal extends Iran-related energy and weapons sanctions for another five years, fulfilling a condition Trump requested for his support. The president has also called for tariffs on Iran, despite minimal trade between the two countries.
The Senate advanced the legislation with overwhelming bipartisan procedural support this week, and it could pass the chamber before lawmakers leave for their August recess. However, the bill faces a far more uncertain future in the House of Representatives, where lawmakers return on August 31.
Leading Democrats, including Senator Ron Wyden and Representative Richard Neal, argue the legislation gives the White House excessive tariff powers that could disrupt global trade and increase costs for American consumers. Republican Senator Rand Paul has also pledged amendments to limit the president's tariff authority.
Trade and sanctions experts warn the bill would establish a new precedent by allowing the U.S. to impose broad secondary tariffs on entire countries rather than targeting specific individuals or companies accused of helping Russia. Supporters argue the five-year sunset clause provides sufficient safeguards while strengthening pressure on Moscow by reducing its energy revenues and limiting sanctions evasion.
