US Senator Lindsey Graham Links India’s Tariff Relief to Reduced Russian Oil Imports
Senator Lindsey Graham credits India’s reduced dependence on Russian crude for securing lower US tariffs in the latest bilateral trade framework.
A senior United States senator has said that India secured tariff relief from Washington after recalibrating its trade in Russian crude oil, linking the move to broader geopolitical and economic considerations amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said India had “earned” a reduction in tariffs by adjusting its energy procurement strategy, particularly with regard to discounted Russian oil purchases that surged after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. His remarks came as the U.S. administration announced easing trade-related penalties on certain Indian exports following recent bilateral engagements.
According to the senator, the decision reflects Washington’s effort to use economic tools to pressure Moscow’s war economy while rewarding partners that show flexibility. He suggested that India’s steps demonstrated responsiveness to U.S. concerns and contributed to the case for lowering tariffs that had been imposed as part of a tougher trade posture.
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India had significantly increased imports of Russian crude over the past two years, taking advantage of lower prices amid Western sanctions on Moscow. While New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that its energy decisions are guided by national interest and market realities, recent signals indicate a diversification of sourcing as global and diplomatic pressures evolve.
The reported tariff relief is expected to benefit Indian exporters across multiple sectors, including textiles, engineering goods, and agricultural products, by improving their competitiveness in the U.S. market. Trade experts say the move could help stabilise bilateral economic ties after months of uncertainty driven by tariff threats and geopolitical friction.
The comments underscore how trade, energy security, and geopolitics are increasingly intertwined in U.S.–India relations. As both countries seek to deepen strategic cooperation, developments around tariffs and energy trade are likely to remain a key barometer of the evolving partnership.
Also Read: US Treasury Signals Possible Removal of 25% Tariff on India as Russian Oil Imports Drop
