Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Act: 100% Tariff Threat Looms Over India and China
Public Lokpal
September 19, 2026
Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Act: 100% Tariff Threat Looms Over India and China
US President Donald Trump has signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 into law.
The sweeping legislation grants the White House discretionary authority to levy secondary tariffs of up to 100% on the top global buyers of Russian oil and gas, specifically placing major importers like India and China in the crosshairs.
While the new law does not trigger automatic tariffs, it weaponizes trade leverage to penalize nations maintaining energy ties with Moscow.
In response, New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that India remains firmly committed to safeguarding its national economic interests and ensuring energy security for its population through diversified sourcing.
Analysts note that the White House will likely use this legislative tool as diplomatic leverage rather than an immediate economic weapon.