India to take ‘all measures’ after US passes Russia sanctions bill

India has pledged to take any necessary action to preserve its energy security following the US passage of sanctions targeting Russia over its war in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin and other top Russian officials are included in the sanctions, which also grant US President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, potentially including China and India.

India's foreign ministry emphasized its commitment to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens through diversified sourcing and adapting to market conditions. Moscow remains one of India's key strategic partners and military suppliers. The Indian government has made clear its determination to safeguard its trade and economic interests.

India has balanced the energy crisis caused by the US-Iran conflict by increasing its reliance on Russia for oil, despite Moscow's involvement in the Ukraine conflict and international pressure. During the conflict, India nearly doubled crude imports from Russia to 2.25 million barrels a day in March, a figure that briefly peaked at 2.81 million in July, according to trade data provider Kpler. However, imports have since declined to 2.07 million barrels last month.

The potential impact of these sanctions on the bilateral relationship and the global energy market have been extensively discussed at high levels between India and the US, as well as with other international partners.