Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Law, India at Risk
US President Donald Trump has signed sweeping Russia sanctions legislation that gives his administration authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries continuing significant purchases of Russian oil and gas, putting major importers including India and China at risk of fresh US trade penalties.
Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Law
The legislation, formally named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, is aimed at increasing economic pressure on Moscow over the continuing war in Ukraine.
It targets Russian officials, banks, energy interests, defence-linked entities and networks involved in sanctions evasion. The law also expands Washington’s ability to penalise foreign countries and companies maintaining substantial energy trade with Russia.
The measure was approved by the House of Representatives by a 262-159 vote before receiving Trump’s signature.
India Faces Possible 100% US Tariffs
Crucially, the law does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on Indian or Chinese goods. Instead, it gives the US president authority to impose duties of up to 100% on countries covered by provisions relating to purchases of Russian oil and gas.
India, China and several other countries have been identified as potentially affected because of their energy trade with Moscow.
Any additional tariff on India would depend on Trump exercising the powers granted under the new law and determining the applicable rate.
India Reiterates Energy Security Position
New Delhi has maintained that its energy purchases are guided by the need to ensure affordable and reliable supplies for India’s population.
The Indian government has also warned that punitive measures linked to Russian oil purchases could affect India-US relations and disrupt international energy markets.
The new law therefore increases trade uncertainty for India while giving Washington significantly broader economic tools to pressure Russia’s major energy customers.
