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 more than 60 US senators introduced the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, which would let the President impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan over their continued purchases of Russian oil.

The bill aims to cut Moscow’s energy revenues and pressure Russia to end the war in Ukraine. The revised draft lowers an earlier proposal of 500% tariffs and gives the President discretion to waive the measures in the US national interest. If enacted, the bill could reshape global trade and strain India-US economic ties, though it remains at the proposal stage.

Senator Richard Blumenthal introduced the legislation with Darline Graham, widow of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, whose sanctions drive inspired the measure. It authorises tariffs of up to 100% on the largest buyers of Russian energy and seeks tougher sanctions on Russian officials, banks, energy projects and the shadow fleet used to circumvent existing curbs.

Senator Blumenthal said the bill holds major Russian oil and gas buyers accountable. Several Republican backers argued countries must choose between dealing with Russia or the United States. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is among supporters, and the bill has cleared the 60-sponsor threshold, strengthening its Senate prospects.

India has emerged as one of the top buyers of discounted Russian crude since 2022, using it to meet growing energy demand while keeping domestic fuel prices stable. The revised bill targets the five biggest purchasers of Russian oil and gas, replacing the earlier blanket proposal of up to 500% tariffs on all buyers. It also allows exemptions for countries reducing their reliance on Russian energy and lets the President waive sanctions if warranted.

Analysts say the proposal, if enacted, could complicate ongoing India-US trade talks and inject more uncertainty into global energy markets. New Delhi has said its energy policy is guided by national interest, energy security and affordability. Indian officials have argued countries should not be forced to compromise energy needs amid global volatility.

The tariffs arrive as India and the US negotiate deeper trade ties and strategic cooperation in defence, technology and critical supply chains. Trade experts warn steep tariffs could disrupt these talks and affect exporters and businesses on both sides.

The bill remains at proposal stage and must pass both chambers before reaching the President. Even then, it grants the President authority to waive tariffs on US national interest grounds, leaving room for diplomacy before any action. Indian opposition parties have criticised the proposal. Congress party leader Pawan Khera called it a serious concern and urged the government to clarify its stance.

The Opposition also questioned why several European countries that import Russian gas may be exempt while India is included. So far, the government has not issued a detailed response.