Trump signs Russia-Iran sanctions law allowing up to 100% tariffs on energy buyers
What happened
US President Donald Trump signed the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 into law. Named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch advocate of aid for Ukraine, the legislation authorizes the US to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries, including India and China, that purchase Russian oil and gas.
Why it matters
The legislation establishes statutory authority for the US to penalize foreign nations maintaining energy trade with Russia and Iran. Major energy importers face potential 100% trade duties, creating immediate regulatory and trade risks for international businesses operating across those markets.
Bigger picture
The law marks an escalation in US secondary sanctions, using tariff threats to target third-party buyers and curb revenues flowing to Moscow and Tehran. Washington is increasingly leveraging access to the US domestic market as a direct foreign policy tool.
Watch next
Watch for official responses from India and China, along with executive guidance outlining how and when the administration will enforce the tariffs.