India warns new US tariffs over Russian oil could impact ties

India has cautioned the United States that a recently passed US bill granting the president authority to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian oil could have consequences for bilateral relations. The US House of Representatives approved a wide-ranging sanctions and tariff package aimed at tightening economic pressure on Russia, and the measure now awaits the president’s signature. The legislation targets several sectors including Russia’s energy and defence industries, names senior officials and addresses methods Moscow has used to evade sanctions. A notable provision would allow the US president to levy tariffs up to 100% on countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and gas. New Delhi’s foreign ministry said it had taken note of the bill’s passage and has discussed the issue with US interlocutors in recent months, warning of potential implications for both the bilateral relationship and the international energy market. The ministry also said India has “very clearly articulated” those implications and affirmed its readiness to take necessary steps to protect trade and economic interests. India emphasized its priority on energy security for its population of about 1.4 billion and indicated it will coordinate with domestic trade and industry bodies to assess and respond to the legislation’s effects. New Delhi has consistently resisted external pressure to curb oil purchases from Russia, arguing that its large economy requires secure, affordable and reliable energy supplies.