Trump signs expanded sanctions package targeting Russian energy and defense sectors
Select a version of the text written from a presumed ideological perspective. This is not the original text, but a hypothetical version — how someone with that viewpoint might have phrased it. Tapping the current version again will return to the original or select cleaned version.
President Donald Trump enacted a law granting him authority to impose tariffs and sanctions on Russian entities and major buyers of its energy, with a 30-day deadline for implementation.
President Donald Trump has enacted a new sanctions package aimed at Russia’s defense, energy and financial sectors, as well as its shadow fleet and senior officials. The legislation, introduced by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and co-sponsored by Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, authorizes the president to levy up to 100% tariffs on U.S. imports from the five countries that purchase the most Russian energy. It also allows for broader sanctions against Russian organizations and individuals.
Under the law, most of the measures must be applied within 30 days of its enactment, though the president may suspend them if national-security considerations arise. The original proposal called for 500% tariffs on any buyer of Russian oil and gas, but the final version was scaled back.
Critics note that the statute does not specify which countries qualify as top energy purchasers, giving the president wide discretion in selecting targets. Analysts suggest the timing may be linked to President Trump’s upcoming meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, potentially providing additional leverage in diplomatic talks. Some observers also warn that new tariffs could raise oil prices ahead of the November midterm elections, a period when U.S. voters are already concerned about rising costs.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the legislation, calling it “critically important” and urging swift implementation. The Kremlin has not issued an official comment, though a Russian presidential spokesman indicated the sanctions could complicate negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.