India vowed on Thursday to safeguard its trade and economic interests following the U.S. House of Representatives’ approval of a sanctions bill that could lead to steep tariffs on major importers of Russian oil, such as India. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which could impose tariffs up to 100%, was passed with a 262-159 vote and now awaits presidential action.
The legislation targets countries that maintain significant trade relations with Russia, potentially impacting India, China, Slovakia, Hungary, and Azerbaijan. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs emphasized its commitment to energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens and highlighted its strategy to diversify energy sources amid evolving market conditions.
Officials from India have already engaged in discussions with their U.S. counterparts to address the possible effects of the sanctions. The Indian government is also collaborating with trade and industry groups to mitigate any economic repercussions caused by the proposed measures.
In recent months, India has stepped up energy imports from nations like the United States and Venezuela to broaden its supply base, though Russia remains a key provider of crude oil to the country. Concerns have emerged regarding how these potential tariffs might affect India-U.S. trade relations and the broader global energy markets.
The bill had previously passed the U.S. Senate, and its adoption could significantly alter trade dynamics for the countries involved, underscoring the geopolitical tensions surrounding energy policies and international sanctions.