Russia Sanctions Bill Clears US House, India Could Face Tariffs Up to 100%

The US House of Representatives has approved a new Russia sanctions bill that could give President Donald Trump the power to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries continuing to buy Russian oil and gas, with India among the nations that could be affected.

The House passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by a 262-159 vote on Wednesday. The legislation had already secured Senate approval last month with an 86-11 vote and now awaits presidential action.

Bill Seeks Tougher Economic Pressure on Russia

The legislation is aimed at increasing economic pressure on Moscow over its ongoing war in Ukraine. It proposes measures targeting Russia’s energy and defence industries, along with vessels operating as part of its so-called shadow fleet.

A key provision would allow the US president to levy tariffs of as much as 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas. India and China, both significant buyers of Russian crude, could consequently come under the scope of the measure.

The bill calls for the five biggest importers of Russian oil or gas to be targeted. It also provides an exemption for countries importing less than 15% of Russia’s natural gas exports if they have taken significant measures to reduce their purchases.

India Could Face Fresh US Tariffs

The legislation creates a potential new mechanism for Washington to impose tariffs on Indian imports over New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian energy.

However, passage of the bill does not mean India will automatically face a 100% tariff. The legislation gives the US president the authority to impose such duties, with any action depending on the administration’s decision.

A House amendment had specifically identified 10 countries, including India and China, in connection with the tariff provision.

The bill also contains additional sanctions targeting Iran, expanding its scope beyond measures against Russia.

Long-Delayed Legislation Moves Forward

The sanctions package had been facing delays since its introduction in April 2025. It gained momentum after Trump supported efforts to advance the legislation earlier this year. The measure was originally introduced by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham along with other lawmakers.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and the conflict remains unresolved despite repeated international diplomatic efforts.

With the House vote, Congress has moved closer to providing the administration with expanded legal authority to use tariffs as part of its broader economic pressure campaign against Russia and countries that continue to purchase Russian energy.