IMPLEMENTING THE LINDSEY O. GRAHAM SANCTIONING RUSSIA AND IRAN ACT OF 2026

Trump Issues Executive Order on Tariffs and Sanctions Related to Russian Oil

On October 16, 2026, President Donald Trump issued an executive order under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, establishing higher tariff rates on Russian goods and certain countries linked to Russian oil and gas imports or sanctions evasion.

The order outlines the following measures:

• 500% tariff increase: Raises duties on goods from Russia, subject to specified exceptions and waivers.

• 100% tariff increase on certain countries: Targets goods from the five largest importers of Russian-origin crude oil and natural gas if they knowingly make new purchases on or after October 18, 2026.

• Sanctions evasion penalties: Provides for additional 100% duties on goods from the five countries identified as the leading facilitators of Russian oil sanctions evasion.

• Monitoring and reporting: Directs the U.S. Trade Representative, in coordination with relevant departments, to monitor Russian energy purchases and sanctions evasion and recommend further action.

• Waivers and exemptions: Waives several sanctions, restrictions, and duties authorized under the act, citing U.S. national interests. The waivers remain in effect until the President or designated officials determine further action is appropriate.

The order also delegates implementation responsibilities to the Secretaries of State, Treasury, and Energy, and the U.S. Trade Representative.

Overall, the order establishes a framework for increasing economic pressure on Russia and countries facilitating its energy trade, while allowing the administration to waive certain measures based on U.S. national interests.