President Donald Trump has signaled the potential use of new tariff powers against major purchasers of Russian energy, including India and China, under the recently enacted Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Trump emphasized the authority granted by the legislation to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and natural gas, as part of efforts to pressure Moscow into ending the war in Ukraine.
The law, signed by Trump last week, empowers him to decide whether to implement these tariffs, specifically targeting the five largest buyers of Russian energy. Both India and China feature prominently on this list, raising concerns about potential economic impacts should the tariffs be applied. Trump’s remarks highlight Washington’s ongoing endeavor to leverage economic measures to bring about negotiations over the Ukraine conflict.
In addition to the tariff powers, the legislation introduces sanctions aimed at Russian officials, financial institutions, and networks accused of helping Russia circumvent existing restrictions. These measures are part of a broader strategy to intensify economic pressure on Russia, with the ultimate goal of prompting a resolution to the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed support for the new sanctions law, indicating his readiness to engage in further discussions aimed at achieving peace. The legislation’s flexible approach allows the U.S. president to tailor the application of tariffs, leaving open the potential for significant diplomatic and economic shifts depending on future decisions by the Trump administration.