US Sanctions Bill: Reactions from India, Russia, and China on Implications for International Relations

India, Russia, and China have expressed strong reactions to a new US sanctions bill that allows President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries, including India and China, for purchasing Russian oil and gas. The US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 with a vote of 262-159, following Senate approval on August 7. The legislation expands sanctions against Russia and grants the president authority to impose steep tariffs on the five largest buyers of Russian petroleum or natural gas.

India Prioritizes Energy Security

In response to the legislation, India stated it would take necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests while ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized its commitment to energy security and indicated that it is closely monitoring developments following the US House vote. The MEA reiterated that India would continue to diversify its energy sources based on market dynamics.

The ministry highlighted that discussions regarding the implications of the sanctions had taken place at high levels with US officials. India has conveyed its determination to safeguard its trade interests and will collaborate with Indian trade and industry bodies to address the potential impacts of the sanctions. Russia has become a significant source of energy for India, with Indian imports of Russian crude increasing notably in recent years.

Russia Criticizes US Sanctions

Russia condemned the new US sanctions package, asserting that additional measures could hinder peace efforts in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the sanctions as “unfriendly actions” and stated that they would complicate negotiations for a peace settlement. The sanctions target Russia’s energy and defense sectors, as well as financial institutions and vessels involved in circumventing existing restrictions.

The legislation aims to increase economic pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year. US efforts to mediate peace have stalled, with Trump dispatching envoys to Moscow and Kyiv earlier this month to revive the peace process.

China Rejects US Jurisdiction

China has also rejected the US sanctions, asserting that its trade and economic cooperation should not be subject to external interference. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun criticized what he termed US “long-arm jurisdiction” and reaffirmed China’s commitment to conducting trade based on equality and mutual benefit.

China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions and continues to purchase oil from countries like Iran despite US restrictions. As one of the largest buyers of Russian energy, China’s imports from Russia reached $64 billion last year, with figures surpassing $70 billion from January to August this year.

Overview of the US Bill

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, developed after extensive negotiations, expands sanctions against Russian officials and financial institutions. A key provision allows Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian energy. The bill includes exemptions for countries importing less than 15% of Russian natural gas exports that have taken steps to reduce those purchases.

The legislation also creates a pathway for imposing tariffs on imports from India if certain conditions regarding Russian energy purchases are met. With the House’s approval, the bill is now awaiting Trump’s signature, which would enhance the administration’s sanctions and tariff authorities against Russia and its trading partners.

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