A bipartisan group of US lawmakers has introduced legislation in the US Congress seeking to impose 100% tariffs on imports from five countries, including India, over their continued purchases of Russian oil. The proposed measure, if enacted, would mark one of the most aggressive trade actions undertaken by the United States against countries maintaining energy ties with Moscow.

The bill targets India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan, alleging that their purchases of Russian crude help finance Russia's military operations. The proposal comes despite the fact that the US administration had earlier eased sanctions that allowed several countries, including India, to continue importing Russian crude under specific circumstances.

According to lawmakers backing the legislation, the proposed tariffs are intended to increase economic pressure on Russia by discouraging countries from purchasing its energy exports. Supporters argue that reducing Moscow's oil revenues remains a key objective of Western efforts to weaken Russia's financial capacity.

European allies exempted

The proposed legislation has drawn attention for exempting 15 European countries that continue importing Russian natural gas. The sponsors of the bill argue that these nations rely on Russian energy for only a limited share of their overall consumption and have already initiated plans to reduce their dependence on Moscow.

The exemption has raised questions among critics, who argue that applying punitive tariffs selectively could create inconsistencies in the US approach toward countries trading with Russia.

Beyond tariffs

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal described the proposal as more than just a tariff measure. According to him, the legislation would also impose sweeping sanctions targeting major sectors of the Russian economy.

The proposed restrictions would cover Russia's energy and financial sectors, its defence industrial base, influential business figures and oligarchs, as well as Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Lawmakers say the objective is to intensify economic pressure on Moscow while discouraging third countries from maintaining commercial relationships that could indirectly support Russia's economy.

Potential implications for India

If approved, the legislation could have significant implications for India-US trade relations. India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began, with refiners citing energy security and competitive pricing as key reasons for continuing imports.

Indian officials have consistently maintained that the country's energy purchases are guided by national interests and economic considerations. New Delhi has also reiterated that it complies with applicable international regulations while ensuring affordable energy supplies for domestic consumers.

Wider trade context

The proposal comes amid broader trade discussions in Washington. Last month, the United States also proposed imposing 12.5% tariffs on imports from 54 countries, including India, over concerns related to the alleged import of goods produced through forced labour.

Analysts note that the latest bill represents a significant shift by attempting to use tariffs as a geopolitical instrument rather than solely as a trade remedy.

Legislative path remains uncertain

The bill must clear both chambers of the US Congress before it can become law and would also require presidential approval. Its final outcome remains uncertain, particularly given the potential diplomatic and economic consequences for relations with major trading partners such as India and China.

If enacted, the measure would represent the first instance in which the US Congress explicitly authorises tariffs as a tool to pressure countries accused of indirectly supporting another nation's military campaign through energy trade.