The US is preparing for the final vote on new sanctions against Russia: what the bill provides for

The US House of Representatives is scheduled to hold a final vote on a bill to tighten sanctions against Russia and Iran on September 16. The bill includes new restrictions on Russian officials, the financial and energy sectors, the “shadow fleet,” and the possibility of imposing tariffs of up to 100% on the largest buyers of Russian energy.

The House of Representatives passed a key procedural stage the day before: 214 congressmen voted in favor of the bill, 211 against. Two Democrats joined the Republicans.

The US Senate approved the bill back in August by a vote of 86 to 11. If the House of Representatives supports the text without changes, the bill will be sent to President Donald Trump.

What the new sanctions entail

The bill expands restrictions on Russian officials, defense-related entities, financial and energy institutions, and networks that help Russia circumvent existing sanctions.

Separately, the document is directed against the so-called Russian “shadow fleet”, which is used to export oil to circumvent restrictions.

Another important norm is the possibility of introducing duties of up to 100% on countries that are the largest buyers of Russian oil and gas or help circumvent energy sanctions.

Why the bill caused controversy

It was the expansion of the tariff powers of the US president that became one of the main topics of discussion in the House of Representatives.

Some Democrats oppose the document in its current version, as they believe that it will give Donald Trump too broad powers in the field of customs policy. At the same time, supporters of the bill say that new economic instruments should increase pressure on Russia and reduce its revenues from the sale of energy resources.

The bill also provides for sanctions against Russian political leaders, state and financial institutions, large banks and state-owned energy companies.

The final vote in the House of Representatives is expected on September 16. If supported, the bill will pass the final key stage in Congress before being sent to the US President.