**India Vows ‘Determined’ Response to US Sanctions Pressure**
In light of recent developments in the United States Congress, India has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring energy security for its population of 1.4 billion. This statement comes in response to the passage of a sanctions bill targeting Russia, which could impose significant tariffs on countries that purchase Russian oil.
The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 was approved by the House of Representatives on Wednesday with a vote of 262-159, following earlier approval by the Senate. The legislation, which now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature, could authorize tariffs of up to 100% on the top buyers of Russian oil, a category in which India ranks second, following China.
According to data from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), Russian crude oil constituted approximately 45% of India's total oil imports in August, translating to around 2.1 million barrels per day. In the financial year ending March, India imported $40.8 billion worth of Russian crude, making up about 30.3% of its total crude oil imports.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Indian Foreign Ministry emphasized the country's determination to safeguard its trade and economic interests amid the looming threat of increased tariffs. The ministry noted that discussions regarding this issue had taken place at high levels with US officials in recent months, highlighting the potential repercussions for both bilateral relations and the global energy market.
The Indian government plans to collaborate closely with trade and industry bodies to navigate the implications of the new sanctions. The Foreign Ministry underscored that New Delhi would continue to pursue energy security through diversified sourcing strategies and by adapting to evolving market dynamics.
The backdrop of these sanctions is further complicated by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly following US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which have disrupted energy flows through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and contributed to rising energy prices.
While the sanctions bill does not automatically impose tariffs on Russian energy buyers, it grants President Trump the authority to levy additional duties on the top five importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. Analysts suggest that the Trump administration could leverage this new legislation to compel India to make unilateral trade concessions, particularly as New Delhi has yet to finalize a trade agreement with the US despite extensive negotiations.
The sanctions bill, named in honor of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a vocal critic of Russia, also targets Russia’s energy and defense sectors, as well as vessels that the US claims are used to circumvent existing sanctions. Additionally, the legislation extends sanctions on Iran, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
As India navigates these challenges, its commitment to energy security remains a top priority, with officials indicating a readiness to take necessary measures to protect the nation's economic interests in the face of external pressures.