US President Donald Trump has thrown his weight behind a bipartisan sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil and natural gas, including India and China, describing the proposal as a tribute to late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who had long championed tougher measures against Moscow.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the legislation reflected Graham’s commitment to increasing economic pressure on Russia.
“This is in honour of Lindsey. This was his thing. He wanted this more than any other thing,” Trump said while referring to the late senator’s years-long push for stronger sanctions against Moscow.
What the Proposed Tariff Bill Says
The bipartisan legislation would empower the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the world’s five largest buyers of Russian crude oil and natural gas. India and China are among the countries that could be affected if the bill becomes law.
The proposal is aimed at reducing Russia’s energy revenues and increasing pressure on Moscow to end its war in Ukraine.
The bill reportedly gained momentum following discussions involving senior White House officials, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Republican lawmakers and Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen.
According to Senate sources, supporters believe they have enough backing to secure Senate approval, although a voting schedule has not yet been announced.
Iran May Also Be Added
Trump indicated that lawmakers are considering expanding the legislation beyond Russia.
“They’re going to add Iran, which is a very big thing. If they did that, they may add Hezbollah too,” the US President said.
If expanded, the bill would target additional countries or entities accused of supporting Iran or helping sanctioned nations evade US restrictions.
Exemptions Under the Proposal
The legislation includes exemptions for countries that import less than 15% of their natural gas from Russia, protecting allies such as France and Japan.
It also contains provisions to penalise countries accused of helping Russia bypass existing oil sanctions and introduces measures targeting Moscow’s shadow shipping fleet and entities allegedly supporting Russia’s defence industry.
Potential Impact on India
If enacted, the proposed legislation could significantly affect India-US trade relations, particularly as both countries continue negotiations aimed at expanding bilateral trade under the proposed Mission $500 Billion framework.
India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began, making it one of the countries that could face additional tariffs under the proposed law.
The move also comes at a sensitive time for global trade, with the United States and China maintaining a temporary trade truce while diplomatic efforts continue.
Ukraine War Continues to Shape Global Policy
The proposed sanctions are part of broader Western efforts to weaken Russia’s economy as the Ukraine war enters its fourth year.
Republican Senator John Kennedy said there is a “serious effort” in Congress to move the legislation forward and suggested Trump is supportive of the proposal.
If passed, the bill could reshape global energy trade while increasing economic pressure on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy exports.
