Senate approves Russia sanctions bill championed by Lindsey Graham

Graham, who died unexpectedly just weeks ago, was a leading proponent of the bill and a strong supporter of Ukraine.

Published: August 7, 2026 2:32pm

The Senate on Friday approved a Russian sanctions bill that had been championed by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.

The chamber approved the legislation in an 86-11 vote, according to the Associated Press. The bill punishes other nations purchasing Russian gas, which has been a critical economic lifeline for Moscow amid the years-long war.

Graham, who died unexpectedly just weeks ago, was a leading proponent of the bill and a strong supporter of Ukraine. 

Before the vote, Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C., who replaced her brother in the chamber, said "[i]t's time for a show of strength. It's time for action. It's time for the Senate to pass the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026."

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.

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