On July 31, 2026, President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke in Anchorage, Alaska, highlighted by the passage of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 by the U.S. Senate. Named for the late South Carolina Republican, this legislation was advanced by an 86-12 vote.

Support for Ukraine has been strong among many politicians. The act aims to ramp up sanctions on Russia and contains many promising provisions. However, some elements of the proposed bill raise concerns about its potential impacts.

The legislation’s tariff proposals may affect various countries, possibly more than Russia itself.

The bill is nearing passage, but its mixed elements make evaluation of its overall benefit difficult. Lawmakers and policy analysts continue to weigh the positive provisions against the negative aspects in anticipation of its final form.