Implementing the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026

What it does

• •Imposes a 500 percent ad valorem tariff on goods from the Russian Federation, subject to specified exceptions and waivers.
• •Imposes a 100 percent ad valorem tariff on goods from the top 5 importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas if they make new purchases on or after October 18, 2026.
• •Imposes a 100 percent ad valorem tariff on goods from the top 5 countries that facilitate Russian oil sanctions evasion.
• •Waives application of certain sanctions provisions, duties, and restrictions under the Graham Act based on presidential determination of national interest.

Why it matters

• •The order implements a congressionally enacted statute (signed September 18, 2026) designed to impose economic sanctions on Russia and Iran through tariffs and trade restrictions.
• •The waiver of major sanction provisions indicates the President has determined that immediate implementation of certain Graham Act requirements is not in the national interest, despite Congressional authorization.

Who is affected

• •Importers and exporters of goods from the Russian Federation and the top 5 countries importing Russian energy or facilitating sanctions evasion.
• •U.S. businesses and consumers purchasing goods subject to the new tariff rates.
• •Foreign persons and entities subject to sanctions provisions of the Graham Act.

What happens next

The U.S. Trade Representative, in coordination with State, Treasury, and Energy departments, shall monitor circumstances related to Russian energy purchases and sanctions evasion and report regularly to the President on whether further action is needed regarding the waivers.