The United States is considering a bill that would impose steep duties on countries buying Russian oil, with India being one of the top targets. The proposed sanctions could lead to increased tensions between New Delhi and Washington.
Under Section 17 of the Russian Sanctions Act, 2025, countries that buy or sell certain Russian products could face up to 500% ad valorem duties. This includes oil, uranium, natural gas, petroleum products, and petrochemical products originating from Russia.
US President Donald Trump is backing the bill, which also threatens secondary tariffs of 100% on countries continuing to trade sanctioned Russian products. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned China, India, and Brazil – among other top buyers of Russian oil – that they should push Vladimir Putin towards ending the war in Ukraine or face tariffs.
The Indian government has responded by cautioning against “double standards,” pointing out that European Union countries continue to procure oil from Russia despite sanctions. India itself sells about 38% of its oil exports to Russia, with around half going to China and a smaller proportion to EU countries.
The proposed sanctions further complicate trade ties between the US and India, which are currently negotiating a mini-trade deal. The deal is expected to be completed soon, but negotiations over tariffs and market access have been intense.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-cautions-against-double-standards-in-sanctions-on-russian-oil-imports/article69824317.ece