The United States House of Representatives has approved a bill aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine.
The legislation, passed on Wednesday by a vote of 262–159, seeks to strengthen sanctions against Russian individuals, companies and countries that continue major trade links with Moscow.
The bill had already received approval from the US Senate and will now require the signature of President Donald Trump before becoming law.
Bill Targets Russia’s Energy Income
The proposed legislation focuses largely on reducing Russia’s ability to finance military activities through energy exports.
Key measures include: additional sanctions on Russian officials and companies, restrictions targeting Russian oil and gas revenues, possible tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy resources.
The bill authorises the US president to impose tariffs on the five largest buyers of Russian energy and countries accused of helping Russia bypass existing sanctions.
Tariffs Could Reach 100%
Under the legislation, tariffs imposed on affected countries could initially rise to 100 per cent.
However, rates would be reviewed depending on whether countries reduce their dependence on Russian oil and gas.
The legislation requires reassessment of the five largest importers every 180 days.
Exemptions may apply to countries whose imports represent less than 15 per cent of Russia’s natural gas exports over a 12-month period and that demonstrate efforts to reduce purchases.
Impact on China and India
The proposed measures could affect trade relations with major buyers of Russian crude oil, including China and India.
Both countries have maintained significant energy trade relationships with Russia, despite Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine.
The bill’s supporters argue that reducing Russia’s energy income would limit its ability to sustain the war.
Lawmakers Praise Passage
The legislation was supported by lawmakers from both parties.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, one of the bill’s co-authors, described the passage as a significant step in supporting Ukraine.
He said the legislation was intended to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin and encourage an end to the conflict.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said the measure would provide the US administration with additional tools to pressure Russia.
“This bill sends a powerful message of American unity,” Johnson said.
Background: US Sanctions on Russia
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the United States and its allies have introduced several rounds of sanctions targeting: Russian financial institutions,, defence companies, government officials,benergy exports, individuals linked to the Russian government.
Supporters of sanctions argue they are designed to reduce Moscow’s ability to fund military operations, while critics have raised concerns about their wider effects on global trade and energy markets.
