India Reaffirms Energy Security Priorities Amid US Sanctions Bill on Russian Oil

India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the energy needs of its 1.4 billion citizens remain paramount as it watches a U.S. Senate bill that would impose heavy tariffs on the top importers of Russian oil. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters that New Delhi is closely monitoring the legislation, known as the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, which passed the Senate 86‑12 and would allow up to a 100 % tariff on the five largest importers of Russian energy.

The Indian government stressed that its energy policy continues to rely on diversified sources, including imports from the United States, and that diplomatic engagement with Washington will remain ongoing despite the proposed punitive measures. The bill is expected to affect countries such as China, India and others that purchase Russian oil.

India reiterated its commitment to secure reliable, uninterrupted and affordable energy for its domestic population while maintaining a multilateral procurement strategy.