New Delhi flags risks to energy security and bilateral ties, Moscow warns of damage to Ukraine peace efforts, while Beijing rejects US “long-arm jurisdiction” as sweeping sanctions bill heads to Trump
India, Russia and China have pushed back against a sweeping US sanctions bill targeting Moscow, with New Delhi warning that the legislation could have consequences not only for bilateral ties but also for global energy markets.
India on Thursday reiterated that securing energy for its 1.4 billion people remains a priority, after the US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by 262 votes to 159. The legislation, which had already cleared the Senate, now goes to President Donald Trump.
The bill gives Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that continue to buy Russian oil and gas. India and China are among the major buyers that could potentially face such measures. However, passage of the legislation does not itself impose a 100 per cent tariff on India; any such action would depend on the bill becoming law and the administration choosing to use the powers it provides.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi is monitoring developments and will take all necessary steps to protect its trade and economic interests.
“As stated on several earlier occasions, India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people,” the MEA said, adding that the country would continue to secure energy through diversified sourcing and evolving market conditions.
New Delhi also said the issue has been discussed with US interlocutors at high levels in recent months. India has conveyed its assessment of the potential impact of the legislation on both the India-US relationship and international energy markets.
More from BusinessRussia: Sanctions could hurt Ukraine’s peace efforts
Moscow also criticised the legislation. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the move as “unfriendly actions” and said additional US sanctions, if introduced, would complicate efforts to reach a peaceful settlement in Ukraine.
The legislation targets Russian energy and defence sectors, banks, officials and vessels linked to the so-called shadow fleet. Its supporters argue that the measures could increase pressure on Moscow by restricting revenues that help finance its war in Ukraine.
China rejects US pressure
Beijing has also objected to the legislation. China’s Foreign Ministry said economic and trade cooperation between China and other countries should not be disrupted or coerced by third parties.
China opposed what it described as “long-arm jurisdiction” and unilateral sanctions lacking a UN Security Council mandate, according to a statement from its Foreign Ministry spokesperson.
The reactions from New Delhi, Moscow and Beijing underline the wider implications of the legislation as Washington seeks to tighten pressure on Russia while major Asian economies continue to navigate their energy and trade relationships with Moscow.
