US Senate Passes Act Authorizing 100% Tariffs on Russian Oil Buyers

The United States Senate passed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on August 7 by an 86-11 vote. The legislation grants Donald Trump discretionary authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas, including China and India, to pressure these nations to stop funding Russian military operations in Ukraine. The act also introduces new sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, military officials, and oil tankers used to bypass global restrictions.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro stated on August 11 that President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will work directly to resolve disputes regarding India's purchases of Russian oil. Navarro noted that while India was not involved in the Russian oil trade prior to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, it became heavily involved afterward to ensure domestic energy security.

Navarro claimed that these purchases helped finance Moscow's war effort but asserted that the issue has since been resolved. He defended the administration's broader tariff policies as a strategy to stimulate domestic investment and encourage foreign companies to build factories within the United States. He emphasized that the two leaders maintain a good working relationship and will settle the matter between themselves.