House passes sweeping Russia sanctions bill despite Democratic opposition
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The House approved a comprehensive sanctions package targeting Russian oil buyers and officials, sending it to the president after a 262-159 vote, while a minority of Democrats opposed the measure.
The U.S. House of Representatives approved a broad sanctions bill aimed at Russian oil and gas purchasers, as well as Russian officials and financial institutions, with a 262-159 vote on the chamber’s final day before the recess. The legislation, named after the late Sen. Lindsey O. Graham, now proceeds to the president’s desk.
The measure allows the president to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest buyers of Russian oil or natural gas, with exemptions for countries that import less than 15% of their gas from Russia and are taking significant steps to reduce those imports. It also extends sanctions to Iran’s energy and weapons sectors at the request of the president and includes a waiver provision if the president certifies that the action serves U.S. national interests.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "This bill sends a powerful message of American unity and gives the administration every tool in the toolbox to help bring this war to a just end, and we are proud to send it to the president's desk."
Democratic leaders opposed the bill, arguing that it would expand presidential tariff authority and increase costs for American consumers. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar said the president "has shown no willingness to be strong on Russia" and that new tariff powers could raise prices for families.
Some Democratic representatives expressed concern that the legislation would "dramatically extend presidential tariff authorities" and could undermine long-term support for Ukraine. Rep. Gregory Meeks said he hopes the president will implement the bill but warned he would hold the administration accountable if it does not.
Republican Rep. Michael McCaul cited support from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stating that while sanctions can be evaded, tariffs cannot, and that they are "the teeth of this bill."
The vote also saw two moderate Democrats break with their party to help pass the measure, emphasizing the urgency of the issue before the congressional recess.