HR 5797 - Designating the Russian Federation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism Act

Overview

Bill Number: HR 5797

Title: Designating the Russian Federation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism Act

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced: October 21, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to formally designate the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism, a classification that would trigger a series of economic and diplomatic sanctions. The primary rationale is to hold Russia accountable for its ongoing support of terrorist groups and activities around the world, as well as its own state-sponsored acts of terrorism.

Key Provisions

• Requires the Secretary of State to determine whether the Russian Federation meets the criteria to be designated as a state sponsor of terrorism within 90 days of the bill's enactment
• Mandates the imposition of various sanctions if Russia is so designated, including:
  • Restrictions on U.S. foreign assistance
  • Bans on defense exports and sales
  • Controls on exports of dual-use items
  • Limitations on financial transactions
• Directs the President to oppose Russia's membership or participation in international organizations and forums
• Calls for a report on Russian state-sponsored terrorist activities and support for terrorist groups

Affected Parties and Impacts

If enacted, this legislation would have significant impacts on U.S. relations and dealings with Russia, as well as on Russian economic and diplomatic interests globally. Key affected parties include:

• The Russian government, which would face escalating economic and diplomatic pressure
• U.S. companies and financial institutions, which would be restricted in their ability to engage with Russia
• Allies and partners of the U.S. who may be compelled to also impose sanctions on Russia
• Terrorist groups and activities that have historically received support from the Russian state

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on October 21, 2025 and has been referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee for consideration. If reported out of committee, it would then need to pass the full House and Senate before being signed into law by the President. Given the high-stakes geopolitical nature of the issue, the bill's progress and ultimate fate remain to be seen.