WASHINGTON (Diya TV)  — The U.S. Senate has approved a bill that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy Russian oil and gas. India ranks among the five countries named in the measure. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

The Senate passed the legislation by an 86-11 vote. Lawmakers named it the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The measure aims to reduce Russia’s energy income and put more pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine.

However, the bill does not impose tariffs automatically. Instead, it gives the U.S. president the power to impose them on countries that continue to buy Russian energy. The U.S. Trade Representative would determine the tariff rate if the president takes action.

The House will consider the bill after lawmakers return on Aug. 31. 

India has drawn particular attention because it has sharply increased its purchases of Russian crude. India imported a record 2.78 million barrels of Russian oil per day in July, according to reports cited in the legislation’s coverage. As a result, U.S. lawmakers have placed India among the countries that could face higher trade costs.

China, India, Azerbaijan, Hungary and Slovakia make up the five countries named in the bill. Supporters say energy purchases from Russia provide important revenue for its economy. They also argue that this revenue helps Russia maintain its military campaign in Ukraine.

If the president imposes a high tariff, Indian goods entering the U.S. market could become more expensive. That could put pressure on Indian exporters across several industries.

At the same time, the legislation gives the president some flexibility. The president can choose whether to impose tariffs and decide how strongly to use the measure. The bill also includes a presidential waiver.

Under the waiver provision, the president would need to certify the decision to Congress. The administration would also have to review the decision every 180 days. 

The bill extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2031. The extension could penalize companies that invest in Iran’s energy industry.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, a strong supporter of Ukraine, helped champion the legislation with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal. Graham died in July, but bipartisan support helped move the bill forward.

Nations that import less than 15% of Russia’s total natural gas exports could qualify for an exemption under the legislation.