The five largest purchasers of Moscow's crude and gas now face potential levies after the White House enacted new trade restrictions targeting the Kremlin's energy exports. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 authorizes tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil and gas and targets Russia's shadow fleet of tankers used to bypass Western restrictions. The legislation extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2031 and was passed by the House in a 262-159 vote on Sept. 16.

China criticized the new law, and India's foreign ministry warned that tariffs on Russian oil purchases could damage bilateral ties with Washington. The Kremlin described the measure as an unfriendly act, stating that additional sanctions will complicate efforts to reach a peaceful settlement in Ukraine.