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Trump's 100% Tariff Threat: India and China Face New Trade Uncertainty Over Russian Oil
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News18•27-09-2026, 13:04
Trump's 100% Tariff Threat: India and China Face New Trade Uncertainty Over Russian Oil
- •US President Donald Trump signed a new Russia sanctions law allowing tariffs up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas.
- •India and China, major buyers of Russian energy, could face significant trade pressure if these tariffs are implemented.
- •Political scientist John Mearsheimer noted Trump's past "mistake" in developing a hostile relationship with India, which the US later tried to mend.
- •The US aims to maintain good relations with India despite Trump's "mercurial personality" and shifting statements.
- •The new law introduces fresh uncertainty for nations heavily reliant on Russian energy imports amidst evolving US foreign policy.
Key Questions Answered
President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, granting the White House legal authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue buying Russian oil and gas.
No, the legislation does not automatically enforce a 100% tariff on India or China, but it creates a legal pathway and gives President Trump the discretion to decide whether and at what rate to apply tariffs.
Russian crude has become a major part of India's energy supply, accounting for more than 40% of its crude supplies recently, while July imports saw Russian crude make up over half of the total.
