US 100% Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil Purchases Could Affect India

The United States is considering new measures that could increase trade pressure on countries continuing to purchase Russian oil and gas. India has been named in a proposed amendment to a Russia sanctions bill that could allow the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100% on selected countries.

The development comes as the US House of Representatives moves forward with the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The Senate passed the legislation in August, and the House has now cleared a procedural vote to advance it.

Why India Has Been Included

India has remained a major buyer of Russian crude oil, particularly after changes in global energy markets following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Indian refiners have purchased Russian crude at competitive prices as part of their energy-supply strategy.

A proposed House amendment would specifically name India, China and several other countries as potentially eligible for secondary tariffs of up to 100%.

However, the proposed measure does not mean that India automatically faces a 100% tariff. The legislation would give the US president authority to impose such duties if the relevant provisions become law. The final outcome depends on the House process, the final legislation and presidential action.

How the Russia Sanctions Bill Could Affect India

If additional tariffs were eventually imposed, the impact could extend beyond India's Russian oil purchases.

Higher US tariffs on Indian exports could affect sectors that depend heavily on access to the American market. Businesses may also need to reassess supply chains, pricing strategies and trade arrangements.

The proposal could also add another issue to discussions between India and the United States on trade and economic cooperation.

Different Views in the US Congress

The tariff proposal has faced disagreement within Congress. While one amendment seeks to specifically identify countries such as India and China as eligible for additional duties, another amendment would remove the section giving the president broad authority to impose secondary tariffs.

This means the final form of the legislation remains subject to the congressional process.

What It Means for India's Energy Strategy

Russian crude has become an important part of India's diversified energy sourcing. Any major change in the cost or availability of Russian oil could encourage refiners and policymakers to examine supplies from other international markets.

India's position has been that its energy purchases are driven by national energy requirements and market conditions. The proposed US measures therefore create a potential point of tension between India's energy strategy and Washington's efforts to increase economic pressure on Russia.

What Happens Next

The US House has advanced the bill after a 214–211 procedural vote. A final House vote is the next major step before the legislation could move toward the president.

Until the legislative process is completed and any presidential action is taken, the possibility of a 100% US tariff on India remains a proposed measure rather than an automatically applicable tariff.

The situation will be closely watched by Indian exporters, energy companies, investors and policymakers as the United States considers stronger economic measures related to Russian oil trade.