Senate Approves Russian Sanctions Bill in Honor of Lindsey Graham

Before his death, Lindsey Graham was a prominent advocate in Congress for imposing new sanctions on Russia. The South Carolina Republican played a key role in supporting legislation that the Senate approved on Friday.

The GOP-led Senate passed a bipartisan bill imposing sanctions on Russia, initially spearheaded by Lindsey Graham before his sudden death last month at 71. The legislation was passed by a vote of 86 to 11. Its aim is to weaken the Russian economy and seek resolution to the ongoing war that began in 2022 with President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, resulting in significant civilian casualties.

The bill proposes sanctions against top Russian officials and harsh penalties for countries purchasing Russian oil and natural gas. It authorizes the President to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major Russian energy importers, including China and India. Additionally, it extends sanctions against Iran.

Before his passing, Graham had met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, announcing a deal with the White House to support the bill. Following his death, Senate colleagues declared the legislation would carry Graham’s name in recognition of his efforts.

“My late brother Lindsey was a foreign policy and national security expert. He was also a peace maker who was determined to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine,” stated Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C., on the Senate floor before the vote. She has been appointed to complete her brother’s term.

Graham emphasized the war against Ukraine is largely funded by revenues Russia earns from energy sales. She noted that without these profits, Russia’s capacity to fund the war would be significantly diminished. She said the legislation focuses on crippling these resources.

The bill must still pass the House before reaching President Trump for approval. Both Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson have shown support for the bill. However, the Louisiana Republican faces challenges, as some House Democrats oppose granting Trump new tariff authorities.