Archive · 17 Sep 2026
House Passes Russia Sanctions Bill Giving Trump New Tariff Powers
The United States House of Representatives passed a bill about Russia and Iran sanctions.
The bill gives President Donald Trump more power to place tariffs on countries that buy Russian oil and gas.
China, India and Turkey could potentially face these tariffs.
The bill could also place a very large tariff on goods from Russia.
Supporters say stronger economic pressure could help Ukraine resist Russia’s invasion.
Critics say the tariffs could raise prices and make economic problems worse for Americans.
Business groups also worry the bill could support a much broader tariff program.
Trump has broad discretion and may choose not to use some of the powers.
The House approved the Russia sanctions bill 262-159, sending it to President Donald Trump.
The measure could authorize tariffs on countries including China, India and Turkey that purchase Russian petroleum.
Trump could impose a 500% tariff on Russian goods and an additional 100% tariff on certain energy importers.
The bill divides lawmakers and business groups over supporting Ukraine versus worsening inflation and affordability concerns.
The legislation extends the Iran Sanctions Act through 2031, while presidential waivers leave implementation uncertain.
- Who
- The United States House of Representatives, President Donald Trump, Ukrainian officials and lawmakers from both parties are central to the measure.
- What
- Congress gave final approval to a bill expanding presidential authority to impose tariffs and extending Iran sanctions.
- When
- The House passed the bill Wednesday; the article was published September 17, 2026, and the Senate approved it the previous month.
- Where
- The House vote took place in Washington, United States; potential tariffs would affect trade with the United States.
- Why
- Supporters seek to pressure Russia and countries buying Russian energy, while critics warn of higher prices and broader tariff authority.
Supporters of expanded sanctions
Critics of expanded tariff authority
Pressure on Russia
Supporters of expanded sanctions
Supporters say tariffs and sanctions would punish Russia and countries purchasing its petroleum, creating consequences for the invasion of Ukraine.
Critics of expanded tariff authority
Critics question granting President Donald Trump additional tariff authority, arguing it could be broadly used against trading partners.
Ukraine support versus affordability
Supporters of expanded sanctions
Pro-Ukraine lawmakers say the United States has an obligation to support Ukrainians and pressure Vladimir Putin to stop the aggression.
Critics of expanded tariff authority
Opponents warn that tariffs on allies could worsen inflation, gasoline prices and the affordability crisis before the midterm election.
Economic impact
Supporters of expanded sanctions
Supporters argue that forcing China and India to seek non-Russian oil could increase pressure on Russia.
Critics of expanded tariff authority
Business groups and some lawmakers say disrupting oil purchases could increase demand in constrained markets and raise costs for Americans.
- House vote
- 262-159
- Potential tariff on Russian goods
- Up to 500%
- Potential additional tariff
- Up to 100% on certain energy-importing countries
- Tariff authority duration
- Five years
- Iran Sanctions Act extension
- Through 2031
- Senate status
- Passed the bill in the previous month
- Presidential discretion
- Broad waivers allow the president not to impose penalties