US Senate passes Russia sanctions bill to punish buyers backing Putin

The bill is aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine by targeting not only Moscow but also countries that continue buying Russian oil and other energy products.

The legislation seeks to tighten economic pressure on Russia by expanding sanctions on Russian officials and increasing the cost for countries that continue trading in Russian energy.

One of its most significant provisions authorises tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries that continue purchasing Russian crude oil and other energy products. India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan are among the countries that could be affected under the proposal.