US President Donald Trump has signed into law a new sanctions package aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia amid its ongoing war in Ukraine. The legislation, approved by Congress earlier this week, targets key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy and defense, as well as senior officials in Moscow’s leadership.
The bill, which passed the House of Representatives with a 262-159 vote, also focuses on curbing Russia’s so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to circumvent existing Western sanctions. It grants the president the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major importers of Russian oil and gas, extending the possibility of trade penalties to countries such as China and India. This provision is designed to further restrict the revenue streams that finance Russia’s military operations.
In addition to expanding sanctions on Russian entities and individuals, the legislation includes measures related to Iran, reflecting broader US strategic concerns. While the sanctions package received bipartisan support, it exposed a division within the Democratic Party. Many Democrats, while maintaining strong support for Ukraine, expressed reservations about granting the president wide-ranging authority over trade policy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the bill, describing it as a significant tool that could halt the conflict and pressure Russia to pursue peace. He expressed gratitude to US lawmakers via social media, emphasizing the symbolic and practical importance of the sanctions.
The measure has prompted responses from key international players targeted by parts of the sanctions. China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that it retains the right to defend its national sovereignty and interests, including protecting the rights of Chinese companies potentially affected by the new tariffs. India, meanwhile, affirmed its intention to continue purchasing oil from diverse sources, signaling it would navigate the new restrictions according to its own strategic needs.
The timing of the legislation’s signing is notable, as it occurs just one week before President Trump is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington. The sanctions law adds complexity to US-China relations at a time when energy trade and geopolitical strategy remain central issues between the two powers.