India has warned that new US measures targeting countries that purchase Russian oil could have implications for bilateral relations, after the US House of Representatives passed legislation allowing President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian energy. The bill now awaits further action before it can become law.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi had already raised concerns with Washington over the potential impact of the legislation on the bilateral relationship and international energy markets. The government said it remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its population and will take necessary steps to protect its trade and economic interests.
India is one of the world’s largest oil importers and has become a major buyer of Russian crude. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that its energy purchases are guided by market conditions and the need to secure reliable and affordable supplies for its large population. The government said it would continue sourcing energy from diverse suppliers.
The proposed US tariffs could also create challenges for Indian refiners. Industry sources cited by Reuters said that restrictions affecting Russian supplies could increase crude procurement costs, particularly amid existing disruptions to global energy supplies. Some refiners have reportedly urged the government to seek exemptions or arrangements that would allow existing transactions to be completed.
The issue could further complicate ongoing India-US trade negotiations. India and the United States have been working toward a broader trade agreement, and the threat of additional tariffs over Russian oil has added another point of contention between the two countries. Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal is expected to discuss trade issues with US officials during upcoming G20 meetings.
The latest development comes as India continues to balance its longstanding relationship with Russia with its expanding economic and strategic engagement with the United States. Any implementation of the proposed tariffs could therefore have consequences for trade, energy costs and the wider economic relationship between New Delhi and Washington.
