Trump shoots from Senate shoulders to punish Russia, by making India and China pay
The US Senate approved a bill allowing President Trump to impose tariffs. This legislation targets nations buying Russian oil and gas, including India. India faces potential 100% tariffs for its energy purchases from Russia. The bill grants the president discretion and includes exemption provisions for allies. This move could impact global energy markets and US consumers significantly.
The US Senate has approved a bill, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which allows President Trump to impose 100% tariffs on India, China, and Turkey for being top purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas. The legislation targets countries aiding Russia in evading energy sanctions, Russian banks, officials, and shadow tankers.
The bill, which passed with an 86-11 vote, now awaits approval from the House. This move is different from Trump's previous tariffs, which were primarily justified as measures to address trade deficits, protect American industry, or counter unfair trade practices. This tariff, however, is a form of secondary sanction targeting countries based on whom they purchase energy from, demonstrating a more aggressive use of American market power.
India's energy security is a significant factor in resisting the tariffs, as Russian oil has become an important component of its crude supply, particularly after disruptions in Middle Eastern supply.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
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