Washington: The United States is moving toward a dramatic escalation in trade pressure on India after former President Donald Trump approved a sweeping sanctions bill that could pave the way for tariffs of up to 500 percent on countries continuing major trade with Russia.
The legislation, backed by influential U.S. lawmakers, targets nations that import Russian energy and other strategic commodities. While not an immediate tariff order, the bill grants Washington broad authority to impose extraordinary trade penalties, a move that could significantly impact India–US economic ties.
Supporters of the bill argue that the measure is aimed at tightening pressure on Moscow by discouraging global partners from maintaining commercial links with Russia. Critics, however, warn that such extreme tariffs could disrupt global supply chains, fuel inflation, and strain relations with key strategic partners like India.
New Delhi has not yet issued an official response, but trade analysts say the proposal could trigger intense diplomatic negotiations in the coming weeks. India remains one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a crucial player in global energy and manufacturing markets.
With markets closely watching Washington’s next steps, the bill signals a tougher stance on economic diplomacy and underscores how geopolitics continues to reshape global trade policies.
