Up to 100% Tariffs: U.S. Imposes Tough Sanctions on Russian Oil Buyers, China and India Unusually Align
On Wednesday local time, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill targeting sanctions against Russia and Iran by a large majority. Having already cleared the Senate, the measure now awaits only the final step—presidential signature.
Former President Trump has explicitly indicated he will sign the legislation, formally titled the "Lindsay O. Graham Act to Sanction Russia and Iran for 2026."
The name itself reveals that the bill was championed by Graham, a longtime ally of Trump. Its core provisions intensify sanctions on Russia and Iran, with the most consequential clause authorizing the U.S. president to impose punitive tariffs—up to 100%—on countries importing Russian energy.
The bill does not name specific nations, but multiple U.S. politicians have openly signaled that China and India are primary targets. Senator Blumenthal directly urged Beijing and New Delhi to source energy from alternative suppliers, warning that continued purchases from Russia would result in significant economic costs.
In response to what it views as unwarranted pressure, India issued a firm rebuttal. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated unequivocally that the country will uphold its energy security principles, determining its own sources of oil and gas without external coercion.
India also warned that the U.S. move would further damage bilateral relations, pledging to take all necessary measures to safeguard its economic interests, and rejecting any infringement upon national sovereignty.
The Indian government’s stance is consistent with prior domestic political dynamics. Previously criticized by opposition parties for being overly conciliatory, New Delhi now exhibits rare unity across political lines in its approach toward Washington, suggesting a determination to stand firm against U.S. pressure.
China has repeatedly emphasized that it rejects any illegal unilateral sanctions. It asserts that Sino-Russian energy cooperation is driven purely by market logic, devoid of political motives, and that the United States holds no legitimate basis for judgment.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1876569814294531/
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