US President Donald Trump has stepped up pressure on countries doing business with Russia, including India, by approving a powerful new sanctions bill that could authorize tariffs of up to 500 percent. The bipartisan legislation targets nations that knowingly purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other exports, which Washington says are helping finance Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war effort.
The bill, known as the Russia Sanctions Act, would grant the US administration sweeping authority to impose secondary sanctions and steep tariffs on Moscow’s key trading partners such as India, China, and Brazil. These countries have continued importing Russian energy resources despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham confirmed the development in a post on X, stating that President Trump approved moving forward with the legislation following a “productive” meeting on Wednesday. Graham added that the bill, which specifically addresses purchases of Russian uranium and energy exports, is expected to be brought to a vote in the Senate next week.
The sanctions package is jointly sponsored by Senator Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal. It is designed to severely weaken Russia’s economy at a time when the Trump administration is simultaneously pursuing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, now approaching its fourth year.
Peace negotiations are reportedly being led by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. While talks continue, lawmakers backing the bill argue that stronger economic pressure is necessary to force Moscow to make meaningful concessions.
In a statement, Graham said the timing of the legislation is critical, claiming that Ukraine has shown willingness to compromise for peace while Russia continues its military offensive. The bill would allow the US to impose tariffs and secondary sanctions of up to 500 percent on countries purchasing Russian crude oil, natural gas, and other exports, with the aim of cutting off funding for Russia’s military operations.
The proposed legislation has garnered significant support in the Senate, and a companion bill has also been introduced in the House of Representatives by Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, signaling strong bipartisan backing for tougher action against Russia and its trade partners.
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