New Delhi said it had “made clear” its determination to “protect trade and economic interests”.
Published September 17, 2026
India has warned the United States that new measures to impose tariffs on purchases of Russian oil could affect bilateral relations, hours after the US Congress approved a bill giving President Donald Trump new powers to punish buyers of Russian oil.
The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a comprehensive sanctions and tariff bill aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.
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The bill targets Russia’s energy and defense sectors, President Vladimir Putin and other senior officials, as well as Moscow’s so-called shadow tanker fleet used to circumvent Western sanctions.
It also authorizes President Donald Trump to impose steep tariffs of up to 100 percent on countries including India, reduce dependence on Russian oil and gas, and extend sanctions on Iran.
The bill has been sent to Mr. Trump to pass.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that it “remains resolutely committed to the energy security of its 1.4 billion people.”
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said it was keeping an eye on the bill’s passage, adding that New Delhi had raised the issue with various U.S. interlocutors in recent months and “stated very clearly” the potential impact on bilateral relations and international energy markets.
“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to safeguard trade and economic interests,” the statement said.
It added that the government will work closely with trade and industry bodies to address the impact of the bill.
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, is one of the biggest buyers of Russian oil, which is seen as helping Russia replenish its budget since it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, earning it widespread sanctions from the West.
New Delhi has repeatedly tried to resist pressure to cut oil trade with Russia, saying its large population and economy need a safe, affordable and reliable energy supply.
