Trump pauses 100% tariff threat against India over Russian oil
Washington: US President Donald Trump has temporarily halted the implementation of a law allowing tariffs of up to 100% on India and other countries buying Russian oil and gas, easing an immediate trade threat against New Delhi amid continuing tensions over its energy ties with Moscow, according to reports.
Trump signed an executive order on Friday suspending the measure, informing Congress that the pause was in the US national interest. The move came before the 30-day period for triggering the tariffs expired on Sunday.
The legislation, named after late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, authorises punitive duties on the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or natural gas during the 12 months preceding its implementation, provided they knowingly continue purchasing Russian crude oil or natural gas beyond the stipulated deadline. Countries helping Russia circumvent oil-related sanctions could also face penalties.
The decision comes amid an apparent contradiction in Washington’s approach to Russian energy. Just a week earlier, Trump had announced a US agreement to purchase Russian diesel to bring down global energy prices, despite concerns that such transactions could undermine Ukraine’s position in its war with Moscow.
The US has repeatedly argued that purchases of Russian energy help finance the war against Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
India has faced mounting pressure from Washington over its Russian crude imports. In August 2025, the Trump administration imposed an additional 25% punitive tariff on Indian goods, taking the combined rate to 50%. Trump removed that extra levy in February following an interim trade agreement between the two countries.
New Delhi has maintained that safeguarding national energy security remains a priority, with crude sourcing guided by market conditions and diversification needs. The latest suspension offers temporary relief, but the underlying trade and diplomatic tensions remain unresolved.