Washington, Sept. 17 -- The United States has stepped up pressure on India and China over their continued purchases of Russian oil, with US Senator Richard Blumenthal urging both countries to reduce their dependence on Russian energy following the passage of a major Russia sanctions bill by the US House of Representatives.
Blumenthal, speaking after the legislation cleared the House, called on India and China to "clean up your act" and buy oil from alternative suppliers. His remarks came as Washington seeks to increase economic pressure on Russia by targeting countries that continue significant energy trade with Moscow. The legislation passed by the US House gives President Donald Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue purchasing Russian oil and gas. India and China, among the largest buyers of Russian energy, could therefore face additional trade measures if the provisions are implemented.
The bill still requires President Trump's signature before becoming law. The legislation has been framed by its supporters as a way to increase pressure on Russia and reduce the revenues it receives from energy exports. India has responded by reiterating that its energy policy is guided by the need to secure reliable and affordable supplies for its population. New Delhi has also warned that the proposed US measures could have implications for bilateral relations. The issue is particularly significant for India because Russian crude has become an important part of the country's oil import basket. Indian refiners have continued to purchase Russian supplies amid changes in global energy markets and Western sanctions on Moscow.
The potential tariffs could increase the cost of maintaining the current trade pattern if they are imposed. Indian officials have maintained that the country needs to protect its energy security while assessing the implications of new international measures. China has also pushed back against the US sanctions approach. Beijing has said that bilateral relations should not be disrupted by what it regards as unilateral measures and has opposed the use of sanctions without a basis in international law or United Nations Security Council authority. The latest developments come as Washington continues to use trade and tariff measures to pressure countries maintaining energy ties with Russia. For India, the issue adds another layer to ongoing discussions with the US over trade, tariffs and broader bilateral economic relations.
The immediate focus is now on whether President Trump signs the sanctions legislation and how his administration chooses to use the tariff authority provided under the bill. The legislation permits tariffs of up to 100%, but the passage of the bill does not by itself mean that such tariffs have already been imposed on India or China.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.