US Congress Prepares Sanctions Bill With 500% Tariffs Against Russia

The U.S. Congress is advancing the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, spearheaded by Senator Lindsey Graham, which proposes severe economic measures against Russia, including a 500% tariff on Russian goods and on countries aiding Russia in circumventing sanctions. The bill includes freezing assets of Russian leadership and oligarchs, blocking major Russian banks, and banning energy exports and investments in Russia's energy sector. While it has broad Senate support, the bill's progress depends on President Donald Trump's approval, with recent revisions granting him significant authority to delay or decide the implementation of sanctions, providing him with flexibility to maximize leverage in negotiations. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson have signaled readiness to proceed once Trump signals approval, and Trump has expressed willingness to impose strong sanctions but insists on personal control over them without congressional micromanagement. The legislation's goal is to pressure Russia to negotiate peace, but Russia demands recognition of its territorial claims and Ukraine's neutrality, complicating prospects for a ceasefire. The bill may come up for a Senate vote before the August recess, reflecting bipartisan intent to intensify economic pressure on Moscow amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.