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The law allows up to 100% tariffs on the top 5 Russian oil/gas buyers — not automatic for India, China. Trump decides whether and at what rate to apply them.
US President Donald Trump speaks about healthcare in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. (AFP photo)
US President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that gives him the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas, potentially putting major buyers India and China in the crosshairs.
The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 targets Russia’s energy sector, senior officials, financial institutions and the so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to evade Western sanctions.
The House of Representatives passed the legislation 262-159 on Wednesday, after the Senate approved it earlier. The law allows tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest buyers of Russian oil or gas, although it does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on India or China. Trump will decide whether and at what rate to apply the tariffs.
The legislation is aimed at reducing Moscow’s revenues from energy exports and increasing pressure over the war in Ukraine.
India Warned Of Impact On Ties
India has already warned Washington that the new measures could affect bilateral relations. New Delhi has said it remains committed to energy security and will continue sourcing oil from diverse suppliers based on market conditions.
India is one of the world’s biggest buyers of Russian crude. China is also a major customer, making both countries potential targets under the new law.
The measure gives Trump broad discretion over the tariffs and also allows for waivers under certain conditions.
For India, the legislation comes as New Delhi continues to balance its energy needs with growing pressure from Washington over Russian oil purchases.
Xi Visit Adds To Tensions
Trump’s signing comes just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to visit Washington for talks with the US President on September 24.
The meeting will be Xi’s first White House visit in a decade and the second face-to-face meeting between the two leaders this year. Their previous meeting took place in Beijing in May.
Trade is expected to be a major issue at the summit, alongside tensions over Taiwan, the Iran war, artificial intelligence and efforts to extend the US-China tariff truce.
The new Russia sanctions law adds another point of pressure, as China is one of the world’s largest buyers of Russian energy.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Ask News18US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The legislation targets Russia’s energy sector, senior officials, financial institutions, and its shadow fleet to reduce Moscow’s energy revenues and increase pressure over the war in Ukraine.
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