Trump Set To Sign Russia Sanctions Bill That Could Slap 100% Tariffs On India: US Official

Last Updated:September 17, 2026, 11:25 PM IST

Trump will sign a Russia sanctions bill allowing tariffs up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas, including India. The bill passed both House and Senate.

US President Donald Trump (News18 Media Gallery)

US President Donald Trump is set to sign a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that could give him the power to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas, including India.

A White House official told YEARS on Thursday, “The President plans to sign the bill”, confirming the administration’s position after the US House of Representatives approved the legislation.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 passed the House by 262-159 votes. The bill had already cleared the Senate and now awaits Trump’s signature.

India Warns Of Impact On Bilateral Ties

The development came after Ministry of External Affairs said Washington had been informed that tariffs linked to Russian oil purchases could affect bilateral ties.

New Delhi said it remains “firmly committed” to ensuring energy security and will continue sourcing supplies from diverse sellers based on market conditions.

“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” said the ministry in a statement.

India is among the world’s biggest oil importers and has continued buying Russian crude to secure affordable and reliable energy supplies.

The proposed tariff powers would give Trump broad discretion to target major buyers of Russian energy. India and China are among the countries that could face tariffs of up to 100%, although the bill does not automatically impose such a tariff on India.

Trade Talks Face Fresh Pressure

The move could also complicate ongoing India-US trade negotiations. India is the United States’ top export destination, with Indian goods shipments to the US rising to $42.79 billion in April-August, from $40.39 billion a year earlier.

Indian refiners have already arranged Russian crude for September and October, according to sources cited by Reuters.

Refiners are seeking discussions with Washington, including possible exemptions or quotas, warning that cutting Russian supplies could increase costs at a time when global oil markets are already under pressure.

India-US trade talks remain unresolved, with both sides still working towards an agreement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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What is the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026?

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 is a sweeping U.S. sanctions bill designed to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine. It targets Russia’s energy and defense sectors, as well as its “shadow fleet” of tankers. Crucially, the legislation gives the U.S. President expanded authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and natural gas, including major buyers like India and China.

How did the U.S. Congress vote on the Russia sanctions bill?

The legislation cleared the U.S. Senate by an 86-11 vote. It was subsequently approved by the House of Representatives with a 262-159 vote.

How has India responded to the proposed U.S. tariffs on Russian oil purchases?

India’s Ministry of External Affairs warned Washington that tariffs linked to Russian oil purchases could affect bilateral ties. New Delhi stated it remains “firmly committed” to its energy security, will continue sourcing supplies from diverse sellers based on market conditions, and is determined to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests.

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