Senate Advances “Bone-Crushing” Russia Sanctions Bill – 500% Tariffs Target Energy Buyers

 

The U.S. Senate is advancing a bipartisan bipartisan Russia sanctions bill led by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), proposing sweeping measures to impose 500% tariffs on any country buying Russian energy. The legislation has broad support from over 80 senators and is being praised by EU officials—though critics warn that it could severely hurt American trade and trip global markets.

What’s in the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025

• 500% Tariffs on oil, gas, uranium, and petrochemical imports from countries trading with Russia, with provisions to spare nations supporting Ukraine

• Primary and Secondary Sanctions targeting Russian officials, institutions, sovereign debt, and broader energy sector interactions.

• Empowered to embargo investments or services benefiting Russia.

• Includes exceptions for countries aiding Ukraine militarily

Bipartisan Support & Legislative Momentum

• More than 80 senators have co-sponsored the bill, crossing the threshold that could override a presidential veto.

• Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that the chamber could begin working on the Russia sanctions bill later this month, contingent on aligning closely with the White House

• House Speaker Mike Johnson voiced readiness to act once the Senate passes the bill

 European Backing & International Impacts

• EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the U.S. initiative, seeing it as a strategic step complementing EU sanctions.

• Yet hefty 500% tariffs could disrupt global trade, jolt consumer prices, stoke recession fears, and even impact U.S. nuclear power reliant on Russian uranium imports

Strategic Objective & Presidential Leverage

• Graham described the bill as one of the most “draconian” sanctions ever proposed, aimed at punishing Russia unless there’s a genuine ceasefire.

• President Trump has not yet endorsed the bill, though White House press secretary mentioned it’s “his call” and Trump suggested delaying until after the tax-spending bill .

• Legislative timing may be used tactically—held or released to pressure Russia or negotiate peace.

Risks Highlighted by Critics

• Economic Shock Risk: Analysts warn the tariffs could choke U.S. trade, especially with China and India, and raise costs for American consumers.

• Political Opposition: Sen. Rand Paul labeled it “a worldwide embargo on 36 countries,” warning of severe consequences.

• Diplomatic Concerns: The Trump administration prefers a measured strategy with price caps over sweeping tariffs

What's Next?

• Senate Banking Committee is expected to advance the bill soon, potentially scheduling a final vote this month.

• Coordination is ongoing with the White House to ensure alignment with diplomatic efforts and Ukraine aid plans.

• If passed by the Senate, the bill advances to the House, where leaders have indicated support.

International Security Implications

• With Ukraine-Russia peace talks stalled, the bill reflects growing frustration in Washington and Europe.

• It may enhance U.S. leverage—acting as a “sword of Damocles” over Russia while affirming bipartisan unity after months of mixed messages from Trump .

• Meanwhile, moons EU-U.S. sanction coordination as the EU hammers out its own expansive penalties.

The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 offers a bold strategy—leveraging severe tariffs to undercut Russia’s war economy and compel global compliance. It enjoys strong Senate support and growing international backing, yet its economic repercussions remain deeply controversial. The outcome hinges on the Senate’s vote and the White House’s response—but in a time of escalating conflict, it stands as Congress’s signal: the world is ready to turn up the pressure on Moscow.

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