Key facts
- A bill proposing tariffs of up to 100% on Russian oil and gas buyers faces a critical vote in the US House before the November midterm elections.
- Ukraine's sanctions commissioner, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, is advocating for the bill's passage.
- The legislation would grant the US President authority to impose tariffs on major buyers of Russian energy and countries aiding Moscow in evading sanctions.
- China, India, and Turkey are among the largest buyers of Russian oil.
- The bill also targets Russian officials, financial institutions, and entities supporting its defense industry.
- Some House Democrats are concerned the bill could expand presidential tariff authority amid existing legal challenges.
A significant piece of legislation aimed at increasing pressure on Russia through tariffs on its energy exports faces a crucial decision point in the US House of Representatives before the upcoming midterm elections. Ukraine's sanctions commissioner, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, stated that the bill's passage is possible but uncertain, emphasizing the narrow window for consideration during the House's final pre-election session.
The bill, which gained strong support in the Senate with an 86-11 vote, would empower the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the largest purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas, as well as on countries that assist Russia in circumventing energy sanctions. Major importers of Russian oil include China, India, and Turkey, while the European Union, China, and Turkey are significant importers of Russian natural gas. The legislation also includes provisions to sanction Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior officials, key financial institutions, and entities supporting Russia's defense sector and energy projects, including its "shadow fleet."
Despite the Senate's broad backing, the bill encounters obstacles in the House. Some House Democrats have expressed concerns that the legislation could grant the President expanded tariff authority, potentially exacerbating existing legal challenges to his trade powers. Furthermore, it remains uncertain whether President Trump would fully utilize this authority, particularly concerning China, given ongoing trade tensions. Vlasiuk acknowledged this uncertainty, noting that while departments would be technically ready, the White House's immediate action is not guaranteed. For Kyiv, the priority remains securing the bill's passage in the House before lawmakers depart for the election campaign.