India Pushes Back on U.S. Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil

India has pushed back against U.S. efforts to squeeze Russian oil and gas exports, saying it will continue to prioritize the energy security of its population and may take steps to protect its trade and economic interests. The Foreign Ministry's warning, reported by Reuters, came after the U.S. Congress approved a sanction bill that includes tariffs of up to 100% on importers of Russian energy commodities. The U.S. measure is intended to reduce Russia's export revenues and pressure it to end the war in Ukraine. New Delhi said any U.S. action that affects its energy security could strain bilateral relations, underlining the potential diplomatic fallout from policies aimed at isolating Russia economically. India is already one of Russia's largest oil customers. In August, crude imported from Russia accounted for more than half of India's total crude imports. Russia exported roughly 2.47 million barrels per day to India in that month, a 62.4% increase year-on-year, and that volume represented about 50.83% of India's total oil imports. New Delhi expanded purchases of Russian crude after Western sanctions created deep discounts; more recently, disruptions in Middle East supply have pushed some Russian grades to trade at premiums, and India has continued buying amid limited cheaper alternatives. The statement noted India's historically close diplomatic ties with Russia while also acknowledging its strategic relationship with the United States in Asia.