Trump’s new Russia sanctions law gives the US president power to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy Russian oil and natural gas.
Washington: The new Trump Russia sanctions law could have implications for India and China, as the legislation gives the US president authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil and natural gas.
US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on September 18, according to the White House. The law expands sanctions targeting Russia’s leadership, energy sector, defence industry and so-called “shadow fleet.”
Trump Russia Sanctions: What the New Law Says
The legislation allows the president to impose duties of up to 100% on goods imported from countries that rank among the five largest purchasers of Russian crude oil or natural gas by volume during the 12 months before the law’s enactment.
India and China could therefore come under scrutiny because of their significant purchases of Russian energy. However, the law does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on either country.
Trump has discretion over which countries will face additional duties, the tariff rates and whether certain provisions will be waived.
The legislation is expected to take effect within 30 days of being signed.
5 Key Takeaways
- Trump signed the sanctions law: The legislation was signed on September 18, 2026.
- Tariffs of up to 100% authorised: The law allows the president to impose steep duties on imports from certain Russian-energy buyers.
- India and China could be affected: Both countries are major purchasers of Russian energy.
- No automatic 100% tariff: The actual tariff rate and targeted countries will depend on presidential action.
- Russia’s shadow fleet targeted: The law also targets people and companies involved in transporting Russian energy or helping evade sanctions.
The Trump Russia sanctions legislation represents another expansion of US economic measures targeting Moscow and could create additional uncertainty for countries maintaining substantial energy trade with Russia.
