US bill empowers Trump to target India with 100% tariff over Russian energy

The legislation, passed by the House in a 262-159 vote after Senate approval, gives Donald Trump power to target major Russian energy buyers with tariffs of up to 100 per cent

The US Congress on Wednesday passed legislation giving President Donald Trump sweeping new powers to impose punitive tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian energy products, including India. The legislation now awaits Trump’s signature.

The US House of Representatives cleared the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by a vote of 262-159. The Senate had passed the legislation earlier.

The measure authorises tariffs of up to 100 per cent on leading importers of Russian oil and gas, while providing exceptions for countries making efforts to reduce their dependence on Russian energy.

The legislation comes seven months after Washington withdrew a 25 per cent Russia-related levy on Indian goods. The White House removed that tariff with effect from February 7, 2026, citing steps taken by India in relation to Russian oil and broader bilateral cooperation.

Russia accounted for around 30 per cent of India’s crude oil imports in 2025-26 (FY26).