Washington: The US Senate has passed a major Russia sanctions bill that could expose India and other buyers of Russian energy to tariffs of up to 100 per cent.
The Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 was passed by an 86-11 vote. The bill will now go to the House of Representatives.
The legislation does not specifically name India. Instead, the US administration would identify countries using trade data. It includes nations accused of assisting Russia in evading sanctions as well as significant purchasers of Russian natural gas and crude oil.
India, China and Brazil were mentioned by Republican Senator Deb Fischer while supporting the bill. Her comments are not part of the bill’s statutory text.
The proposed law also targets Russian officials, banks, oligarchs and foreign entities supporting Moscow. It includes measures against Russia’s so-called shadow fleet.
The Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 is also extended by the measure until 2031.
Some US lawmakers have opposed the tariff provisions. The House has not yet indicated when it will consider the legislation.
If enacted, the measure could create fresh trade and energy challenges for India.