The United States Senate has passed a sweeping bipartisan sanctions bill that could authorise President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and gas.

India and China are among the nations identified as major buyers, with Washington maintaining that such trade sustains Moscow’s economy and funds its military operations in Ukraine.

The legislation, formally titled the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, was approved by an overwhelming 86–11 vote. It is named after the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who played a central role in shaping its provisions.

The measure is designed to escalate economic pressure on Russia and Iran while signalling consequences for nations that maintain significant energy trade ties with Moscow.

Under the bill, the US president is granted discretionary authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from the world’s top five buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. India, alongside China, is highlighted as one of the largest purchasers of Russian crude globally.

The legislation seeks to force energy-importing nations to choose between continuing to buy discounted Russian energy or retaining access to the lucrative US market.

Beyond targeting foreign energy buyers, the bill introduces fresh sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior political and military officials, financial institutions, energy projects and entities linked to Russia’s war effort.

It also extends restrictions to older and reflagged oil tankers allegedly used by Russia to circumvent global sanctions, aiming to cut off revenue streams sustaining Moscow’s economy and military campaign.

India’s procurement of discounted Russian crude expanded significantly after the outbreak of the Russia–Ukraine conflict in 2022. While Russia was not historically a primary supplier, Indian refiners capitalised on discounted rates to optimise costs and ensure uninterrupted domestic supplies amid global market volatility and transit disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. New Delhi has consistently defended its energy strategy as being guided by national interest, energy security and affordability for its citizens.

Washington has repeatedly raised concerns about global purchases of Russian oil, but Indian refiners have maintained a pragmatic stance focused on domestic stability. If broadly applied, a 100 per cent tariff could raise import costs for US buyers across sectors such as engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles and auto components. In response, Indian exporters may explore market diversification or adjust operational strategies to maintain competitiveness.

Although the bill secured strong Senate support, some lawmakers expressed reservations about expanding presidential tariff authority. An amendment proposed by Senators Rand Paul and Ron Wyden to remove the new tariff powers was defeated.

Senator Raphael Warnock, who had raised concerns about the framework, confirmed receiving written assurances from the Trump administration outlining operational safeguards.

The legislation also incorporates measures targeting Iran by extending the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2031, sustaining pressure on Tehran’s energy sector. The package thus combines sanctions against two countries viewed by Washington as major geopolitical adversaries.

Under the draft terms, countries may qualify for exemptions if they account for less than 15 per cent of Russia’s total natural gas exports and are actively reducing reliance on Russian energy. The bill also grants the president full authority to waive sanctions or tariff restrictions if deemed in the US national interest.

The measure now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration when lawmakers return later this month. House approval is required before the legislation can be sent to President Trump for signature, leaving significant legislative and diplomatic processes ahead before any tariff measures could take effect.

ANI