US President Donald Trump signs law imposing sanctions on Russia's energy sector and oil buyers

On September 18, 2026, US President Donald Trump signed a law imposing new sanctions on Russia's energy sector, the first major congressional action against Moscow since his return to the White House. The law, named after late Senator Lindsey Graham, targets Russia's phantom fleet and grants Trump authority to impose tariffs up to 100% on major importers of Russian oil and gas, including China and India. It also sanctions Russian President Vladimir Putin and other officials. The bill passed the House on September 17 after Senate approval in August.