New Delhi: India on Thursday said it was determined to protect its trade and economic interests after the US Congress passed legislation allowing President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries, including India and China, that continue buying Russian oil and gas.
The External Affairs Ministry said India remained firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people and would continue sourcing supplies through diversification and evolving market dynamics.
Our statement on passage of the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act in the US Congress
🔗 https://t.co/kD0Yg9sWbU pic.twitter.com/rSc21AqwEh
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 17, 2026
The ministry said the issue had been discussed with several US interlocutors at high levels in recent months. India had clearly conveyed the legislation’s potential implications for bilateral ties and the international energy market.
“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” the ministry said, adding that it would work with trade and industry bodies to address the bill’s implications.
The House passed the Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by 262-159 on Wednesday, after the Senate approved it 86-11 last month. The bill now goes to Trump for his signature.
The legislation seeks to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine by targeting Russian officials, banks, energy interests, defence sectors and the “shadow fleet” used to evade sanctions. It also includes measures against Iran.
For India, the bill does not automatically impose a 100 per cent tariff. It gives Trump the authority to impose such duties if its provisions are triggered.
Any tariffs would primarily affect Indian exports to the US, potentially raising costs and reducing their competitiveness.
India, a major Russian crude buyer, has also been diversifying supplies from the US, Brazil, Canada, Venezuela and Africa.
