Over 60 US Senators Back Bill Seeking 100% Tariffs On India, Four Other Nations Over Russian Oil

KUALA LUMPUR, 22 JULY 2026 —

A bipartisan group of 62 US senators introduced the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, which would let the White House impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan if they continue buying Russian oil and gas.

The bill cuts an earlier proposal of 500% tariffs and gives the President discretion to waive the measures if they conflict with US national interest. If enacted, the legislation would increase pressure on Moscow by curbing its energy revenues three years into the Ukraine war, the sponsors said.

Senator Richard Blumenthal and Darline Graham, widow of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, unveiled the revised measure. It targets the five largest buyers of Russian energy and adds new sanctions on Russian officials, banks, energy projects and vessels used to bypass existing curbs. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is among 62 co-sponsors, strengthening its chances in the upper chamber.

India has become one of the world’s top importers of discounted Russian crude since 2022, helping stabilise domestic fuel prices and meet rising demand. The revised text drops blanket tariffs on all buyers and instead focuses on the largest importers, while offering exemptions for countries reducing reliance on Russian energy. Analysts warn the proposal could complicate US-India trade talks and add uncertainty to global energy markets.

Indian opposition lawmakers criticised the bill. Congress party leader Pawan Khera called the tariffs a serious concern and urged the government to clarify its stance, questioning why some European gas importers face softer treatment than India. The Centre has yet to respond publicly, and the bill still needs approval from both chambers before reaching the President’s desk.