The U.S. Senate has passed a sweeping sanctions bill targeting Russia's energy revenue, ending a more than yearlong legislative fight. The legislation, which also includes sanctions on Iran, allows for tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports and penalties against countries that purchase Russian energy.
The bill was led by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who championed the effort before his unexpected death in July. The measure is designed to stifle Russia's economy by making it costly for other nations to continue buying Russian oil and gas.
Senators had tried for over a year to advance the legislation. Its passage marks a final legislative victory for Graham, who had made punishing Russia a priority. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.