Graham’s Russia Sanctions Bill Advances as Washington Honors Late Senator

The U.S. Senate is moving forward with a major sanctions package targeting Russia as Washington observes the passing of Sen. Lindsey Graham, who championed the legislation before his death at age 71 earlier this month. Graham’s final legislative effort—a sweeping set of economic penalties against Moscow and allies supporting Russian energy exports—is poised for a procedural vote Tuesday evening, hours after memorial services at the National Cathedral.

Lawmakers and world leaders including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are gathering in the nation’s capital to honor Graham’s decades of influence on national security and foreign policy. The South Carolina Republican rose from modest circumstances to become a towering figure in Congress, with particular focus on international affairs and military matters.

The revamped sanctions legislation now carries Graham’s name following advocacy by his sister, newly appointed Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C. The bill imposes tariffs up to 500 percent on Russian imports, targets Russian officials and military leaders, and penalizes nations like China and India for purchasing Russian energy at steep tariff rates of up to 100 percent.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., recalled Graham’s last words to him about the sanctions effort: “It’s a big effing deal. We all did well. We all did good.” Blumenthal emphasized the legislation represents a defining achievement of Graham’s career and a fitting memorial to his legacy of public service.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., expressed confidence the procedural motion would garner significant bipartisan support Tuesday night, setting the stage for final passage. New additions to the package include a “national interest certification” provision governing the president’s waiver authority and sanctions targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet” of vessels transporting energy exports globally.

Rep. William Timmons, R-S.C., reflected on his close friendship with Graham, recalling numerous golf outings and noting the senator’s singular dedication to public service through military and congressional service spanning his entire adult life.