India reacts after Russia sanctions bill passed by US House: 'Potential implications for...'

India on Thursday said it will take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests after the US Congress passed legislation that could allow President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the government had noted the passage of the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act in the US Congress and was monitoring further developments.

"As stated on several earlier occasions, India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people. It will continue to do so through diversified sourcing and on the basis of evolving market dynamics," the MEA said in a statement.

The legislation now goes to Trump for his signature after the US Senate approved it by an 86-11 vote in August.

The bill, which seeks to increase economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine, would authorise the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that are among the five largest purchasers of Russian crude oil or natural gas.

The legislation itself does not impose the tariffs but gives Trump the authority to do so.

India and China, major buyers of Russian crude, could potentially face the additional tariffs under the legislation.

China is the largest buyer of Russian crude while India is the second-largest, according to data cited in US media reports.

The bill provides an exemption for countries whose imports of Russian natural gas account for less than 15% of Russia's total natural gas exports and which are taking significant steps to reduce those imports.

The MEA said India had discussed the issue at high levels with various US interlocutors in recent months and had clearly articulated the "potential implications for not just the bilateral relationship but also the international energy market."

"The Indian side has also made clear its determination to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests," it said.

The government will work closely with Indian trade and industry bodies to deal with the implications of the developments, the ministry said.