India has said it will continue protecting its energy security and sourcing oil from different suppliers based on market conditions. The statement came after the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian energy.

India is one of the world's largest oil importers and has remained a major buyer of Russian crude. New Delhi has repeatedly said that affordable, reliable and secure energy supplies are important for its large population and growing economy.

US Bill Could Increase Pressure on Russian Oil Buyers

The U.S. House passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on Wednesday. The legislation includes additional sanctions on Russia's energy sector and gives U.S. President Donald Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue to rely on Russian energy.

The bill also includes measures targeting Iran. It has now been sent to the U.S. president for consideration.

The measure is designed to increase economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine. India and China are among the countries that could face higher trade costs if such tariffs are imposed.

Read more: India’s Russian Oil Imports Rise Sharply in June as US Shipments Fall

India Warns of Impact on Bilateral Ties

India's foreign ministry said New Delhi had already raised concerns with U.S. officials over possible measures targeting countries that purchase Russian energy.

Indian officials have warned that new U.S. actions could affect both bilateral relations and international energy markets. New Delhi also said it would take steps to protect its trade and economic interests.

India and the United States have expanded trade and economic cooperation in recent years, making energy and tariff policies an important part of their wider economic relationship.

Russian Oil Remains Important for India

Russian crude has become an important part of India's oil supply since Western sanctions were introduced following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

India has maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interests, market conditions and the need to ensure stable supplies. The country has also continued to diversify its energy sources rather than relying on a single supplier.

India's approach to energy security includes maintaining multiple sources of crude oil while managing costs for consumers and industry.

Possible Impact on Oil Markets

Any major change in India's Russian oil purchases could have wider effects on global energy markets because India is one of the world's largest crude importers.

Higher tariffs could increase the cost of trade for Indian companies if they continue buying Russian energy. A shift toward alternative suppliers could also affect global crude flows, shipping demand and regional oil prices.

For India, the issue involves balancing energy security, trade interests and its economic relationship with the United States while maintaining access to affordable crude supplies.