India has warned that proposed US tariffs on countries buying Russian oil could damage bilateral ties, after the House of Representatives approved legislation giving President Donald Trump wider powers to penalise such purchases.
The bill, passed on Wednesday, is designed to increase economic pressure on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. It has now been sent to Mr Trump to sign into law.
Under the legislation, the president would be able to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries including India in an effort to reduce their reliance on Russian oil and gas.
The measures also target Russia’s energy and defence sectors, Vladimir Putin and other senior officials, as well as the so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to evade Western sanctions. The bill would also extend sanctions on Iran.
India’s foreign ministry said on Thursday that New Delhi had taken note of the legislation and had raised the issue with US officials in recent months.
It said India had “very clearly articulated” the potential consequences for the bilateral relationship and the international energy market.
“The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests,” the ministry said in a statement.
It added that India remained “firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people” and would work closely with trade and industry bodies to address the implications of the legislation.
India is the world’s third-biggest oil importer and one of the largest buyers of Russian crude. New Delhi has repeatedly resisted pressure to reduce the trade, arguing that its population and economy require secure, affordable and reliable energy supplies.
