India faces 100% tariff threat over Russian oil after US House vote - BBC

**India Faces 100% Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil After U.S. House Vote**

Washington’s House of Representatives has approved legislation that would impose a 100 percent tariff on Russian crude and refined petroleum products entering the United States. The measure, championed by a coalition of hard‑line lawmakers, is part of a broader strategy to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. While the bill targets shipments destined for the U.S., analysts warn that its ripple effects could reach countries like India that source a growing share of their oil from Russia through third‑party ports and tankers that transit U.S. waters. The BBC noted that the tariff could effectively double the cost of Russian oil for any buyer that relies on U.S. logistical channels.

New Delhi has responded with cautious alarm, emphasizing that any punitive step by Washington would jeopardise India’s energy security. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that it is “monitoring developments” of the sanctions bill, echoing statements from The Hindu that India is prepared to reassess its oil‑import strategy if the tariff is enforced. Officials reiterated that Russia remains a “strategic partner” in the energy sector, with Russian crude accounting for roughly 10 percent of India’s total oil imports. In a joint briefing, senior MEA officials said India remains committed to diversifying its supply mix while safeguarding the uninterrupted flow of fuel to the nation’s transport and power grids.

The move also underscores a widening diplomatic tug‑of‑war between the United States and Asian powers over Russian energy ties. NDTV reported that the Trump administration’s “clean‑up‑your‑act” warning was aimed at both India and China, urging them to curtail trade that could undermine Western sanctions. The Indian Express highlighted the political calculus in New Delhi, noting that more than 1.4 billion people could feel the impact of a steep rise in fuel prices. The Times of India added that the Indian government is exploring alternative routes—such as increased purchases from the Middle East and strategic petroleum reserves—to mitigate the risk of a tariff‑driven supply shock, while maintaining diplomatic channels with Washington to seek a mutually acceptable solution.