Congress Questions India’s Oil Deal with Russia Amid US Tariffs

India is facing growing pressure from the United States over its continued purchases of Russian crude oil. The issue has also become a subject of political debate in India, with opposition Congress leaders questioning how the government will protect the country’s energy interests while managing relations with Washington.

The US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by a vote of 262-159. The legislation gives US President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue to buy Russian oil and gas. The measure had already cleared the US Senate and was awaiting the President’s action.

India is among the major buyers of Russian crude and could therefore be affected if the tariff provisions are used. However, the legislation does not automatically impose a 100% tariff on India. It gives the US President the authority to introduce such tariffs under specified conditions.

The development has triggered criticism from opposition leaders in India. Congress leader K. C. Venugopal questioned whether India’s foreign policy and energy decisions could be influenced by pressure from Washington. Other Congress leaders have also criticised the government’s handling of the issue and raised concerns about India’s strategic independence.

Congress leaders have presented the issue as a question of national sovereignty and energy policy. Their comments are part of an ongoing political dispute with the government over India’s relationship with the United States and its approach to Russian energy purchases.

The Indian government has said that it will continue to protect the country’s trade, economic and energy interests. The Ministry of External Affairs said India remains committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people and will continue to monitor developments surrounding the US legislation.

India has also told the United States that the proposed measures could affect bilateral relations. Indian officials have discussed the potential impact of the legislation on trade and energy markets while emphasising the importance of maintaining reliable and diversified sources of crude oil.

The issue is particularly important because Russia has become a significant source of crude for Indian refiners. According to S&P Global data, India imported about 1.6 million barrels of Russian crude per day in August, making it the largest importer of Russian crude during that month.

For India, any major change in Russian oil supplies could have wider economic consequences, particularly if replacement supplies are more expensive. Indian refiners and industry representatives are therefore closely watching developments in Washington and the possible implementation of the new tariff provisions.

The situation has created a difficult policy issue for New Delhi as it seeks to maintain energy security while managing its relationship with the United States and other major international partners. For now, India is monitoring the developments and has stated that it will take steps to protect its economic and trade interests.

The debate is expected to continue as the US administration decides whether and how to use the tariff authority provided by the new legislation. The outcome could have implications for India’s oil imports, bilateral trade and wider economic relations with the United States.