The United States has proposed major changes to its Russia sanctions bill that could reduce the impact on India and China, the world’s two largest buyers of Russian crude oil. The revised legislation lowers the proposed maximum tariff from 500% to 100% and gives the US President the authority to waive sanctions in certain cases.
Republican and Democratic senators have introduced an updated version of the sanctions bill that cuts the proposed maximum tariff on countries importing Russian oil and natural gas from 500% to 100%.
The revised proposal is designed to increase pressure on countries that continue to rely heavily on Russian energy while also targeting Russian officials with additional sanctions.
India and China Could Get Partial Relief
India and China, which remain among the biggest importers of Russian crude oil, may benefit from the changes.
Unlike the earlier draft, which proposed imposing tariffs on all countries purchasing Russian energy, the new version limits the highest tariff to only the five largest buyers of Russian oil and natural gas. This change could reduce the overall impact on several importing nations.
Trump Given Power to Waive Sanctions
The updated legislation also gives US President Donald Trump the authority to suspend or waive the sanctions if he determines that doing so serves the national interest of the United States.
This provision is expected to provide greater flexibility in implementing the sanctions, depending on diplomatic and strategic considerations.
Bill Has Strong Bipartisan Support
The sanctions bill was originally introduced by late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal. It continues to receive support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers.
According to Senate aides, the revised legislation currently has 26 co-sponsors, with more lawmakers expected to support it as it moves through the US Congress.
Revised Proposal Seen as More Likely to Pass
According to Reuters, the latest version of the bill is considered more practical and has a better chance of passing through Congress than the original proposal.
If approved, the legislation would continue Washington’s efforts to increase economic pressure on Russia while introducing a more targeted approach towards countries importing Russian energy.
First published on: Jul 15, 2026 08:26 AM IST
Get Breaking News First and Latest Updates from India and around the world on News24. Follow News24 on Facebook, Twitter.
End of Article
Related Story
