Washington/New Delhi: The US Senate has passed legislation that could give President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India and China, along with several other countries, over their purchases of Russian oil and gas.
The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 was approved by an overwhelming 86–11 vote. The legislation now moves to the US House of Representatives, where it would need further approval before becoming law.
The proposed measure is significant for India because the country is one of the world’s largest buyers of Russian crude oil. Additional tariffs could therefore have implications for Indian exporters and businesses dependent on access to the US market.
The bill is part of Washington’s broader effort to put economic pressure on countries maintaining significant energy relationships with Russia. The legislation also contains provisions related to Iran sanctions.
For India, the development could become an important trade and diplomatic issue as New Delhi weighs its energy requirements against the potential impact of additional US trade measures.
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