Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Bill Authorising 100% Tariffs on Oil Importers
US President Donald Trump signed legislation in Washington targeting Russia’s energy and defence sectors, granting executive power to levy tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major importers of Russian oil and gas. Global energy traders and international buyers facing potential enforcement now confront heightened regulatory pressure as the law directly targets Moscow’s shadow fleet of tankers alongside foreign firms assisting Russian military operations.
Energy Buyers and Shadow Fleet Face Direct Pressure From Washington
The bipartisan measure passed the House of Representatives by a 262-159 vote following congressional approval earlier in the week. By authorising punitive tariffs on third-party nations purchasing Russian energy, the framework explicitly targets top buyers like China and India to constrain the Kremlin’s primary revenue source. The law also broadens existing restrictions related to Iran and extends sanctions against senior Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin.
India responded by confirming it intends to maintain oil purchases through diversified sourcing, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the legislative action. The signing establishes a immediate point of leverage just one week before scheduled bilateral talks between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington.
