Updated: Jan 8, 2026
US President Donald Trump has reportedly greenlit a bipartisan Russian sanctions bill that could dramatically increase tariffs on countries trading with Russia, including India. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said the legislation would allow Trump to “punish countries who buy cheap Russian oil fueling Putin’s war machine,” with a vote possibly scheduled as early as next week.
What the Bill Does
The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 targets both individuals and countries seen as obstructing peace in Ukraine or supporting Russia’s war effort. Under the bill, sanctions may be applied if a country:
- Refuses to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine
- Violates a negotiated peace agreement
- Initiates another invasion of Ukraine
- Attempts to overthrow, dismantle, or subvert the Ukrainian government
Sanctions could include visa bans, asset freezes, export restrictions, and tariffs up to 500% on imports into the US from offending countries. The bill also directs the Treasury to block property and the Commerce Department to restrict US energy exports to Russia.
India Under the Scanner
India is already facing high tariffs from the US due to its purchase of Russian oil.
- In August 2025, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods.
- Later in 2025, an additional 25% was added, bringing the total levy to 50%.
If the new bill passes, Trump may raise tariffs on India even further, potentially to 500%, targeting all goods and services imported into the US from countries knowingly trading in Russian-origin oil or uranium.
Trump reportedly commented, “Modi is a good guy. He knew I was not happy… and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” signaling the possibility of further escalation.
Wider Impact
Besides India, China and Brazil are also expected to face scrutiny under the new sanctions, reflecting the US strategy to pressure Russia’s trading partners and curb its war financing.
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