JBANC Statement on Passage of Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026

(Washington D.C., September 16, 2026) The Joint Baltic American National Committee welcomes the passage of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026.

Russia’s continued war against Ukraine, including brutal attacks on its people and critical infrastructure, demonstrates the need for sustained international pressure. The United States must continue working with its allies to hold Russia accountable and support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The legislation strengthens the tools available to address Russia’s war economy by authorizing sanctions on Russian financial institutions, energy exports, and the Shadow Fleet, as well as tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas. It also extends sanctions authorities targeting Iran.

Sustained economic pressure on Russia is an important component of protecting the security of Ukraine, the Baltic states, and NATO’s eastern flank.

JBANC will continue to advocate for the strict and timely implementation of sanctions on Russia and those enabling its aggression. We urge the administration to use these authorities in close coordination with U.S. allies to support a durable peace on Ukraine’s terms.