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The Senate just did something rare: it moved in near-unison to choke off the money fueling Vladimir Putin’s war machine. In an 86–11 vote, the chamber passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, a sweeping package that would expand Russia sanctions, renew Iran restrictions, and give the White House targeted tariff authority aimed at the biggest buyers of Russian energy. The bill now heads to the House with serious momentum.
Senate shows rare bipartisan spine
Lawmakers from both parties rallied around the measure, and that’s worth noting. President Donald Trump publicly backed the bill, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lobbied lawmakers, and Senator Richard Blumenthal used the floor to make the case that America must squeeze the cash flow keeping the war going. Senator Darline Graham Nordone — sworn into her late brother’s seat — delivered the final tally and carried on Lindsey Graham’s last fight. Call it grief, call it grit, the result was the same: Washington put policy before petty partisan grudges.
What’s actually in the Graham sanctions bill
The legislation does three big things. First, it broadens sanctions on Russian leaders, banks, energy projects and the “shadow fleet” of tankers that hide oil shipments. Second, it renews sanctions on Iran’s energy and weapons sectors that otherwise would lapse. Third — and most politically charged — it authorizes the president to impose targeted tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the five largest buyers of Russian crude or gas, with narrow waivers and guardrails for countries cutting dependence. That 100% cap is a far cry from earlier drafts that flirted with a 500% figure, and it’s the compromise that unlocked bipartisan support.
Tariffs are blunt but effective — critics aren’t imaginary
Make no mistake: tariffs are a blunt instrument. Supporters correctly argue the measure starves Putin of revenue. Critics rightly warn about fallout — higher prices, diplomatic blowback from big buyers like China and India, and the risk a future president misuses the power. Senators Rand Paul and Ron Wyden tried to strip the tariff authority and lost; Rep. Gregory Meeks warned it could be “weaponized.” Those are real concerns, but they don’t erase the fact that someone must impose real costs on regimes that bankroll aggression.
What comes next — and why it matters
The House now holds the next chapter. Committees will debate details and may tweak tariff language, but the Senate’s wide margin makes a conference and final passage likelier. For conservatives, this is a twofer: stand with Ukraine and defend free nations while using American leverage to protect U.S. interests. Lindsey Graham’s name on the bill adds emotional weight, and his sister finishing the fight gave the vote a scene straight out of a Capitol drama. Voters should watch for how the administration actually uses the tariff power — strong medicine, yes, but one that must be prescribed carefully.
