New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, expanding his administration’s authority to impose sanctions and tariffs on Russia and countries purchasing large quantities of Russian oil and gas.

The legislation allows the US President to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from major buyers of Russian crude and natural gas. India and China, among the biggest purchasers of Russian oil, could come under scrutiny if the tariff provisions are enforced. However, the law does not automatically impose additional duties on Indian exports.

The Act also strengthens sanctions against Russian officials, financial institutions, defence-linked networks and vessels associated with the transportation of Russian energy to bypass restrictions.

The move has raised concerns in India due to the country’s dependence on imported crude oil and its increased purchases from Russia in recent years. The Indian government has maintained that crude procurement decisions are based on energy security, availability and market conditions.

Meanwhile, the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) on Saturday sought clarity from the Centre over the possible economic impact of the US tariff threat. Party spokesperson Mahesh Tapase urged the government to assess the implications for crude oil prices, inflation, exports, employment and energy security.

The party also asked the Centre to outline contingency measures, including alternative crude supply options and steps to safeguard Indian exporters from possible tariff-related challenges. The impact on India will depend on whether the Trump administration decides to use the tariff powers granted under the new legislation.