The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation allowing tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil, sending the bill to President Donald Trump.
Key facts
- •The House passed the Sanctioning Russia Act in a 262-159 vote.
- •The bill allows for tariffs of up to 100% on the top five buyers of Russian energy.
- •Sanctions are also directed at Russian banks, officials, and energy transport tankers.
- •Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously advocated for the bill, which was co-authored by the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
- •Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to meet with President Trump in Washington next week.
The U.S. House of Representatives voted 262-159 on Wednesday to pass the Sanctioning Russia Act. The legislation authorizes tariffs of up to 100% on the top five purchasers of Russian energy products and now heads to President Donald Trump for his signature.
By the numbers
Scope of the Legislation
The bill targets foreign nations that purchase Russian oil, a practice supporters argue funds the ongoing war in Ukraine. In addition to potential tariffs, the act mandates sanctions against Russian officials, banks, and tankers involved in transporting energy products. Countries that import less than 15% of Russia’s energy exports or demonstrate efforts to reduce their purchases may be exempt from the tariffs.
Congressional Debate and Opposition
While the bill received bipartisan support, some lawmakers expressed concern regarding the expansion of presidential authority. Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) stated that the bill grants President Trump sweeping power to impose duties, which he argued could lead to economic harm for Americans. Congressman Don Beyer (D-Va.) suggested that the legislation could ultimately damage relations with U.S. allies.
Upcoming Diplomatic Meetings
The passage of the bill precedes a scheduled visit to Washington by Chinese President Xi Jinping next week. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to meet with Vice Premier He Lifeng over the weekend to discuss trade relations ahead of the summit between the two world leaders.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by WWD.
