US Senators Back 100% Tariffs On Countries Purchasing Russian Oil Including India, China

A bipartisan bill proposing 100 per cent tariffs on imports from countries that continue to purchase large volumes of Russian oil, including India and China, has been introduced in the US Senate with the backing of more than 60 lawmakers. The legislation aims to increase economic pressure on Russia by targeting countries whose energy purchases are seen as supporting Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine. The bill, introduced on Thursday, was drafted by Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal and the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham.

It seeks to reduce Russia’s revenue by imposing mandatory sanctions on the country’s political leadership, financial institutions, energy sector and networks accused of helping Moscow evade existing international sanctions. According to the proposed legislation, 100 per cent tariffs would be imposed on imports from countries that rank among the world's top five buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. The measure would also apply to countries identified as major facilitators of Russian oil sanctions evasion. Earlier this week, Blumenthal said the bill would target India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan under the proposed tariff regime.

The legislation directs the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to review the list of affected countries every 180 days. Based on changes in purchasing patterns or sanctions-related activities, the USTR would have the authority to update the list and adjust tariff rates accordingly. The proposal also includes provisions that exempt certain European countries that continue purchasing Russian natural gas under specified conditions. The exemption reflects the continued dependence of some European economies on Russian gas supplies despite broader efforts by Western nations to reduce energy imports from Moscow following the Ukraine conflict.

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The bill forms part of a wider US strategy aimed at restricting Russia’s ability to finance its military operations in Ukraine. Since the conflict began, Washington and its allies have imposed multiple rounds of sanctions targeting Russian banks, energy exports, businesses and senior officials while encouraging countries to reduce their dependence on Russian energy. India has consistently defended its decision to purchase Russian crude oil, stating that its imports are driven by national energy security and economic considerations. Indian officials have maintained that the country sources oil based on market conditions and has repeatedly emphasised the importance of ensuring affordable energy supplies for its population.

The proposed legislation has been introduced in the Senate but must pass both chambers of the US Congress before it can become law. It would also require the approval of the US President. As a result, the bill remains at the legislative stage, and its provisions are subject to debate, amendment and voting during the congressional process. If enacted, the measure could have significant implications for global trade and energy markets, particularly for countries that continue to import Russian oil. It may also influence diplomatic relations between the United States and major energy-importing nations as governments weigh economic interests against geopolitical pressures stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine.

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