Key facts
- The US Senate approved a comprehensive sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran.
- The legislation includes tariffs of up to 100% on countries that are major consumers of Russian energy.
- The bill aims to deprive Russia of revenue used to fund its invasion of Ukraine.
- It also expands sanctions against Iran and targets entities aiding Russia's sanctions evasion.
- The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
The US Senate has overwhelmingly approved a sweeping sanctions package targeting Russia and Iran, including tariffs on countries that continue to purchase Russian energy. The bipartisan legislation, which passed with an 86-11 vote, is designed to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine and deprive President Vladimir Putin of revenues fueling the conflict. The bill, named in honor of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, also includes expanded sanctions on Iran and targets Russian officials, financial institutions, and entities that aid in sanctions evasion. President Donald Trump has indicated support for the package, increasing pressure on the House of Representatives to take it up for a vote. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Capitol shortly after Graham's funeral and observed the Senate's procedural votes on the legislation.