New Delhi, Sept. 16 -- The United States House of Representatives has advanced legislation that could give President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue purchasing Russian oil and gas, putting India under renewed trade pressure because of its energy ties with Moscow. The proposed measure, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, seeks to intensify economic pressure on Russia over the Ukraine conflict. It also includes provisions related to existing sanctions on Iran.
A key provision of the legislation would allow the US president to impose steep tariffs on countries that are major buyers of Russian energy. India and China are among the largest purchasers of Russian crude, making them particularly exposed to the proposed measures. The House's move comes after the legislation cleared a procedural hurdle, bringing it closer to a final vote. An amendment introduced in the House has specifically named India among the countries that could face the additional tariff, although the final form of the legislation is still subject to further congressional action. The proposed tariff would not automatically come into effect simply because the bill becomes law. The legislation would give Trump the authority to impose the duties, meaning the administration would have to decide whether and when to use the provision.
The bill has triggered debate in Washington over the potential economic and diplomatic consequences of targeting countries that maintain energy trade with Russia. While supporters argue that stronger economic measures are necessary to increase pressure on Moscow, opponents have raised concerns about the impact such tariffs could have on US relations with major trading partners. For India, the issue is particularly significant because Russian crude has remained an important component of the country's energy imports. New Delhi has consistently maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interests, energy security and market conditions. The proposed legislation comes amid continuing pressure from Washington on countries purchasing Russian energy. The US has sought to restrict the revenue Russia earns from energy exports, arguing that such revenues help sustain Moscow's ability to continue the war in Ukraine.
The House action also comes against the backdrop of broader discussions over US-India trade relations. A 100% tariff on Indian goods under the proposed mechanism could have consequences for bilateral trade if Washington eventually decides to use the authority against New Delhi. However, the legislation still has to go through the remaining congressional process before it can become law. The final outcome will depend on the amendments adopted, the votes in the House and subsequent presidential action.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.