The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill that could allow President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas, including
India.
The Republican-led House approved the measure 262-159, sending it to Trump for his signature after months of delays. The legislation, now named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, had cleared the Senate last month by an 86-11 vote.
Bill Targets Russia, Energy Buyers
The legislation seeks to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine by targeting Russia’s energy and defence sectors, as well as its so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers used to evade sanctions.
A key provision gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and natural gas. India and China, among the largest purchasers of Russian crude, could therefore face steep additional duties.
The measure directs the President to target the five largest importers of Russian oil or gas, while providing an exception for countries that import less than 15% of Russia’s natural gas exports and have taken significant steps to reduce those purchases.
A proposed House amendment had specifically named 10 countries, including India and China, as eligible for the tariff provision.
India Faces Fresh Tariff Risk
For India, the legislation creates a new legal route for Washington to impose tariffs of up to 100% on Indian imports over its continued purchases of Russian energy.
The bill also extends sanctions related to Iran, adding to its wider foreign policy measures.
The legislation had faced opposition since it was introduced in April 2025, but gained momentum after Trump backed moving it forward earlier this year. It was introduced by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and other lawmakers.
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and the conflict has continued despite international efforts to secure a settlement.
Trump has generally sought to retain control over US tariffs and sanctions, making the passage of the bill a notable step towards giving Congress a larger role in shaping economic pressure on Russia and its trading partners.
(With inputs from agencies)
