U.S. Congress Passes Major New Sanctions on Russia

The 9th Ukraine Action Summit has come to a close — 5 days of learning, connection, and advocacy that brought together a powerful nationwide community standing with Ukraine.

The Summit brought together more than 650 participants from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico for three days of learning, networking, and impact, including two days of advocacy on Capitol Hill. The event featured eight panel discussions and an Expo with 32 participating organizations, while attendees held 459 meetings with members of Congress to advocate for Ukraine. Key messages to Congress included strengthening sanctions on Russia by advancing the Sanctioning Russia Act, supporting efforts to return Ukrainian children who have been abducted and subjected to Russian indoctrination, and strengthening U.S.–Ukraine defense and economic partnerships while continuing cooperation on shared security interests..

This week, the U.S. Congress took a significant step toward increasing economic pressure on Russia. The House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by a vote of 262–159, following an 86–11 vote in the Senate.

The legislation would expand sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and defense sectors, including its “shadow fleet” of oil tankers used to circumvent existing sanctions. It would also give the President authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue purchasing Russian energy.

The bill has now passed both chambers of Congress and awaits the President’s signature before becoming law. Russia has opposed the additional measures, warning that further sanctions could complicate ongoing efforts toward a peace agreement in Ukraine.

These developments underscore the continued international effort to pressure Russia and support Ukraine. As the war continues, humanitarian assistance remains critical for communities and families affected by the conflict. United Help Ukraine remains committed to providing humanitarian and medical support to the people of Ukraine.