WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has signed legislation paving the way for sweeping new sanctions against Russia, targeting the revenue streams that have helped Moscow finance its war in Ukraine.
Trump signed the measure on Friday, shortly after it cleared the US Congress. The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, as well as President Vladimir Putin and other senior officials.
A key provision allows the US administration to act against vessels associated with Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” — tankers accused of helping Moscow circumvent Western sanctions and continue exporting oil.
The legislation also gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that make large-scale purchases of Russian oil and gas. India and China, among the major buyers of Russian energy, could therefore come under additional pressure depending on how the provisions are implemented.
The move is aimed at reducing Moscow’s energy revenues and increasing the economic cost of its continued military campaign in Ukraine.
The Republican-led House of Representatives had passed the bill 262-159 on Wednesday. The legislation also provides for sanctions against companies and foreign entities supporting Russia’s military and includes provisions expanding certain sanctions related to Iran.
However, the measure has exposed divisions among Democrats. While many Democrats have backed continued US support for Ukraine, some have opposed granting Trump broader authority over trade policy and the use of tariffs against other countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier welcomed the congressional approval, calling it significant and thanking US lawmakers for their support.
India, meanwhile, said on Thursday that it would continue to source crude oil from different suppliers to meet its energy requirements.
Trump’s decision to sign the legislation comes about a week before his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington, adding another layer to ongoing discussions over trade, energy and the war in Ukraine.
