Washington, Sept. 16 -- The US House of Representatives passed a broad sanctions package targeting Russian officials and economic sectors on Wednesday by 262 votes to 159, with the measure now advancing to President Donald Trump for enactment.

Named in honour of the late Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, the legislation was formulated through more than a year of negotiations.

Securing Trump's backing proved critical after the package integrated the president's demand for a five-year extension of existing sanctions on Iran.

The measure represents the most substantial American legislative effort supporting Ukraine since Trump re-entered the White House, following a period of parliamentary gridlock that persisted for nearly two ye...