The U.S. Congress adopts a sweeping package of sanctions against Russia

The U.S. House of Representatives adopted on Wednesday, by a vote of 262 to 159, a sweeping bill aimed at reducing Russia’s financial resources for supporting the invasion of Ukraine. The document is to be sent to President Donald Trump, who must sign it for it to take effect.

The bill, initially introduced approximately a year and a half ago by former Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and dozens of other lawmakers, provides for sanctions against Russian officials, banks, and the “shadow fleet” of tankers used to transport Russian crude oil.

The law requires the president to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian oil or natural gas. Exceptions are provided for countries that import less than 15% of Russia’s gas exports and that have taken significant steps to reduce these purchases.

Supporters say the measure is intended to discourage China and India from buying energy from Russia. Critics fear that the Trump administration could also target European allies.

The initiative was supported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who called on American lawmakers to act to support Ukraine.