US Senate Passes Russia Sanctions Bill, India May Face 100% Tariffs

The US Senate has advanced a bipartisan sanctions bill that could significantly raise economic pressure on countries purchasing Russian energy, including India. The legislation, passed by an 86-12 procedural vote, would authorise President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries that continue buying significant volumes of Russian oil and gas, if it becomes law.

The bill, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, was originally championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham and is aimed at reducing Russia's energy revenues that fund its war in Ukraine.

India among major countries that could be affected

Under the proposed legislation, India is among the major buyers of Russian energy that could face punitive tariffs, alongside China and several other countries. The bill would not automatically impose tariffs, but would give the US President the authority to do so as part of broader sanctions against Russia.

India increased its purchases of discounted Russian crude following disruptions in global energy markets and geopolitical tensions, making the proposal particularly significant for bilateral trade.

Bill still needs House, presidential approval

The Senate vote was a procedural step, not the final enactment of the legislation. The bill still requires further Senate action, approval by the House of Representatives, which is expected to consider it after reconvening in September, and President Trump's signature before it can become law.

If enacted, the legislation would give the US administration a powerful new tool to exert economic pressure on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy, though the decision on whether and when to impose tariffs would remain at the President's discretion.