Trump signs bill allowing up to 100% tariffs on top importers of Russian energy
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President Trump signed legislation that authorizes up to 100% tariffs on the five largest importers of Russian oil or gas, aiming to pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine.
President Donald Trump signed a bipartisan bill that authorizes the imposition of tariffs as high as 100% on the five largest importers of Russian oil or natural gas, with exemptions for countries that receive less than 15% of Russia's gas exports and have taken significant steps to cut those imports. The measure, a legacy effort of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, was drafted with input from Sen. Richard Blumenthal and passed the Senate 86-11 and the House 262-159.
The legislation also sanctions Russian officials, banks and a fleet of tankers that transport Russian energy, with the stated goal of limiting the resources available to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the war in Ukraine.
Sen. Darline Graham, who was appointed to fill her brother's Senate seat, said the bill reflects Lindsey Graham's belief that economic pressure could help end the conflict. Blumenthal added that the United States must show clear and unequivocal strength toward Putin.
Some Democratic lawmakers expressed concern that the expanded tariff authority could be used to target the European Union and other trading partners, potentially harming the U.S. economy. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries questioned why Congress would grant the president such unfettered power to impose additional tariffs worldwide.