Washington, 19 September (H.S.): US President Donald Trump on Friday signed sweeping legislation aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia over its continuing war in Ukraine, while giving the president new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas.

The legislation targets Russia’s energy and defence sectors, senior officials, financial institutions and vessels associated with its so-called shadow fleet, which Western governments accuse of helping Moscow continue energy exports despite existing sanctions.

The measure could have significant implications for countries that remain major purchasers of Russian energy, including India and China. However, the law does not automatically impose a 100% tariff. It gives Trump the authority to determine whether and how such tariffs are applied.

The legislation cleared the US House of Representatives on Wednesday, September 16, by a vote of 262-159, after previously receiving approval in the Senate. The measure represents one of the most significant recent congressional efforts to increase economic pressure on Moscow.

India is among the countries closely watching the development because Russian crude has become an important part of its energy imports. New Delhi has said it will continue to source oil from a range of suppliers based on market conditions while protecting the country’s energy security.

India’s Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that potential US measures linked to Russian oil purchases could affect bilateral relations as well as the wider international energy market.

The new US law also extends sanctions related to Iran and authorises additional measures against foreign companies and individuals accused of assisting Russia’s military or helping it evade sanctions.

The legislation comes as Washington continues to pressure Moscow over the war in Ukraine. The United States has sought to reduce the revenues Russia receives from energy exports, which remain an important source of funding for its economy and military activities.

The tariff provision could create new uncertainty for international trade. If Washington were to impose steep duties on countries buying Russian energy, exporters from those nations could face higher costs when selling goods in the US market.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar