MEA Confirms India Monitoring US Bipartisan Bill Allowing 500% Tariffs on Russian Oil

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on January 9, 2026, stated that India is “fully aware” of and “closely monitoring” a proposed bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill in the United States Congress. If passed, the legislation would empower the U.S. administration to impose tariffs of at least 500 percent on countries—including India, China, and Brazil—that continue purchasing oil from Russia.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the matter during a regular media briefing, responding to reports that U.S. President Donald Trump has backed the bill, which has been under discussion for months. The bill, supported by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, among others, aims to target nations buying discounted Russian crude and refined products, which Washington views as providing financial support to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.

Jaiswal emphasized that India’s energy procurement decisions are guided by a careful assessment of global market conditions, availability, pricing, and the country’s overriding priority of energy security. He stated, “We take into account the conditions and environment in the global market, while also keeping in mind our imperative of ensuring that energy is made available at affordable prices to our 1.4 billion people. Based on these factors, we determine our strategy and policy.”

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India has been one of the largest buyers of Russian oil since 2022, taking advantage of discounted prices amid Western sanctions on Moscow. These imports have helped stabilize domestic fuel costs and ensured supply continuity for the world’s third-largest oil consumer.

The spokesperson’s remarks came a day after Senator Graham highlighted the bill’s potential to give President Trump “tremendous leverage” against countries purchasing cheap Russian oil, describing it as well-timed amid ongoing diplomatic efforts related to Ukraine. Graham expressed hope for a strong bipartisan vote as early as the following week.

Jaiswal did not comment on the internal legislative process in the United States but reiterated the strength of the India-U.S. bilateral relationship, which includes regular high-level engagement. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump held eight conversations throughout 2025, covering a wide range of strategic and economic issues.

India has consistently maintained that its energy purchases are commercial decisions based on market dynamics and are not directed against any third country. New Delhi has defended its imports of Russian oil as a responsible step to safeguard affordability and energy stability for its population.

The MEA’s measured response reflects India’s long-standing policy of strategic autonomy in foreign affairs and energy security. While the India-U.S. partnership remains robust across multiple domains, occasional differences over trade, tariffs, and energy sourcing continue to be managed through dialogue. The fate of the sanctions bill in Congress and its potential implications for India’s energy imports will remain under close observation in the coming weeks.

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