US Senators Introduce Bill Proposing 100% Tariffs on India, Four Other Countries Over Russian Oil Imports

July 15, 2026

New India: A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced a bill proposing tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan over their continued purchases of Russian oil. The lawmakers say the measure is aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow by targeting countries that continue to finance Russia’s energy exports.

Bill also seeks wider sanctions on Russia

Besides tariffs, the proposed legislation calls for sweeping sanctions on Russia’s energy, financial and defence sectors. It also targets Russian President Vladimir Putin, oligarchs and key business figures. According to Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, the bill is designed to weaken Russia’s ability to fund its war efforts.

European countries exempt from proposed tariffs

The bill exempts 15 European countries that continue to import limited quantities of Russian gas. Lawmakers said these nations are gradually reducing their dependence on Russian energy, and their purchases account for only a small share of their overall energy needs.

Proposal honours late Senator Lindsey Graham

The legislation was originally spearheaded by late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. Republican and Democratic lawmakers jointly unveiled the bill, describing it as one of Graham’s most significant legislative efforts. The proposal will now require approval from both chambers of Congress before it can become law.