The Congress on Wednesday sought clarification from the Centre after a bipartisan group of US senators introduced a proposed legislation that could impose 100 per cent tariffs on imports from countries purchasing Russian oil, including India. The party questioned the government’s position and asked Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal to respond to the development, calling the proposed action a matter of serious concern. The legislation, introduced by a group of Republican and Democratic senators, targets countries that continue to buy Russian crude oil, alleging that such purchases help support Moscow’s economy amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Apart from India, the proposed tariffs would also apply to China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan if the bill becomes law. Congress leader Pawan Khera criticised the Centre over the issue and said the government needed to explain its position. In a post on X, Khera said the proposal came from Republican senators and questioned why India was facing the possibility of punitive trade measures despite maintaining its independent energy policy. “These aren't House Democrats. These are Republican Senators — backed by Trump himself — demanding 100 per cent tariffs on India and four other countries for buying Russian oil,” Khera said.

He alleged that the situation reflected a diplomatic setback for India and sought a response from the commerce ministry. The proposed legislation has been linked to efforts in Washington to increase economic pressure on Russia by targeting countries that continue energy trade with Moscow. The senators behind the bill argue that reducing purchases of Russian oil would limit revenues available to fund Russia’s military operations. However, the proposal also includes exemptions for 15 European countries that continue to import Russian gas. The lawmakers supporting the exemptions said these nations depend on Russian energy for a smaller portion of their overall requirements and are taking steps to diversify their energy sources.

Also Read: Congress Calls Modi Government Policies Anti-People Amid Growing Inflation Concerns

India has repeatedly defended its decision to purchase Russian crude, stating that energy security and affordable supplies are key priorities for the country. Since the Russia-Ukraine war began, Indian refiners have increased imports of discounted Russian oil, while New Delhi has maintained that such purchases are consistent with international trade practices. The issue comes at a time when India and the United States are working on strengthening economic ties and negotiating trade arrangements. Any decision by Washington to impose additional tariffs could create challenges for bilateral commerce and affect businesses involved in exports to the American market. The proposed bill, if approved, would mark a major step in using tariffs as a geopolitical tool to influence countries’ foreign policy decisions.

It would allow the US Congress to directly authorise economic penalties against nations accused of indirectly supporting Russia through energy transactions. Meanwhile, the Centre has not issued an official response to the Congress’ criticism or commented on the proposed US legislation. The matter is expected to attract further attention as discussions continue between India and the US on trade, energy security and strategic cooperation. The development also highlights the wider challenge faced by countries balancing economic interests, energy requirements and diplomatic relations amid growing geopolitical tensions. For India, maintaining access to affordable energy supplies while managing relations with major global partners remains a key foreign policy priority.

Also Read: Madhya Pradesh Panel Submits UCC Report As Yadav Seeks Congress Response