India vows to protect trade interests after US Russia sanctions bill

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New Delhi: India on September 17 said it would take all necessary steps to protect its trade and economic interests after the US House of Representatives passed legislation that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil.

The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 was approved 262-159 on Wednesday and, having already cleared the Senate, now goes to President Donald Trump for his consideration. India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan are among countries that could face the proposed measures.

The Ministry of External Affairs said India was closely monitoring developments and remained committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people. It said the country would continue to diversify its energy sourcing based on evolving market conditions.

“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” the ministry said, adding that the government would work with trade and industry bodies to address the implications.

The ministry said India had raised the potential impact of the legislation on bilateral ties and international energy markets during discussions with US interlocutors in recent months.

Russia remains India’s largest source of oil and gas, although New Delhi has increased purchases from the US and Venezuela as part of its diversification efforts.

According to Global Trade Research Initiative official Ajay Srivastava, Russia supplied 51.1% of India’s crude imports in July, exceeding the combined share of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Brazil, Oman and the US.

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