President Donald Trump has signaled the potential use of new tariff powers to pressure Russia to end the Ukraine conflict, a move that could impact major buyers of Russian energy such as India and China. This follows his signing of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which grants the U.S. president the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on nations purchasing Russian oil and natural gas.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Trump highlighted the significant authority the new law provides, emphasizing his readiness to use these powers if deemed necessary to help resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The president also reiterated his call for an end to the hostilities.
The legislation not only targets energy purchases but also introduces sanctions against Russian officials, financial institutions, and networks accused of evading current restrictions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed support for the law and indicated his willingness to engage in further discussions aimed at achieving peace.
While the act does not automatically impose tariffs on India or China, it gives Trump the discretion to decide their application, with potential repercussions for these countries depending on future U.S. actions. This development continues to underscore Washington’s strategy of leveraging economic measures to bring Russia to the negotiating table over its actions in Ukraine.