The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that would empower President Donald Trump to impose steep trade penalties, including tariffs of up to 100%, on countries that continue purchasing Russian crude oil. The measure cleared the House by 262 votes to 159.
The move comes amid continued global energy disruptions following the Russia–Ukraine war. Russia has been selling crude at discounted rates, and India has been buying larger volumes, according to the report. The United States has been pursuing steps aimed at tightening economic pressure on Russia, particularly targeting its energy sector.
The legislation focuses on expanding economic sanctions against Russia and Iran and includes provisions for “secondary” tariff measures. In the House, Republicans backed the bill, while two Democratic members also voted in favour despite their party’s position.
The bill had already been passed by the US Senate last month, with 86 voting in support and 11 against. After months of delay, it has now been sent to President Trump for approval.
A House amendment introduced by Democratic lawmaker Steny Hoyer lists 10 countries, including India, that buy Russian crude oil. The list also includes China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Hungary, Slovakia, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan—raising the prospect of up to 100% tariffs on goods these countries export to the United States.
