The Senate passed a bipartisan sanctions package targeting Russia and Iran on July 28, 2026, with an 86-12 vote. The legislation, named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, was introduced in honor of the late South Carolina GOP senator, who had worked on the measure prior to his death earlier in the month. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with lawmakers before the vote to advocate for the sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a lead sponsor of the bill, stated, "This bill is the one that will pass. This bill is the one that the President will sign. We want a law, not just a bill." The legislation includes new sanctions on Russian political officials, oligarchs, and financial institutions, as well as secondary sanctions targeting countries purchasing Russian oil and gas. It also extends sanctions on Iran's energy and weapons sectors through 2031.
While the bill received broad support, it faced opposition from a small group of bipartisan senators, including Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and 11 Democrats, who expressed concerns about the tariff provisions included in the legislation. Despite this opposition, the bill's passage reflects strong bipartisan support for increasing economic pressure on Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The House is expected to consider the legislation after the August recess, and if approved, it will be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.