Lindsey Graham's Final Sanctions Bill Passes Senate

The bill is meant to stifle Russia's economy by allowing for tough new tariffs against major importers of Russian energy. The legislation was led by Lindsey Graham before his unexpected death in July. Before his death, Graham was one of the most vocal advocates in Congress for new sanctions on Russia.

The South Carolina Republican helped champion the legislation, which was passed by the Senate on Friday. The plan would sanction top Russian leaders and introduce harsh new penalties on nations that purchase oil and natural gas from Russia. It gives President Trump the ability to issue tariffs on these importers — up to 100% for major buyers of Russian energy, such as China and India.

In addition, the bill extends sanctions against Iran. Shortly before his death, Graham met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and announced he had reached a deal with the White House to support the bill. After his death, Graham's Senate colleagues said they would name the legislation in his honor. My late brother Lindsey was a foreign policy and national security expert, said his brother, David Graham.