Trump tariffs ‘unfair’: India will buy energy from commercially viable sources, says MoS amid Russia-Iran sanctions law
India Reaffirms Independent Energy Policy After New US Russia-Iran Sanctions Law
Theindiapostdaily.com – India will continue to choose its energy suppliers on the basis of affordability and commercial viability, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said after US President Donald Trump signed a new law expanding sanctions and tariff powers linked to Russia and Iran.
Speaking on Saturday, Singh described the tariffs being considered against buyers of Russian energy as unfair. He said New Delhi would not make decisions under pressure from another country and would remain focused on securing energy supplies that serve the needs of India’s population.
“We always say that these tariffs that are being imposed are very unfair. And we are not under the pressure of any country. Energy is a very primary concern of ours. And wherever we find commercially viable, economical energy sources for our country and our people, we will take energy from there.”
The remarks came after Trump signed the “Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026” on September 18. The legislation broadens US sanctions targeting Russia and authorises tariffs of as much as 100% in specific cases involving countries that continue purchasing Russian crude oil or natural gas.
Energy security remains central concern
For India, access to reliable and reasonably priced energy is closely tied to economic stability and the daily needs of its citizens. Singh said the government’s priority is the welfare of the country’s 140 crore people, adding that policy choices would be guided by India’s own interests.
“The priority of the country of India and our government is our people, our people of 140 crores. We will take every step which is necessary for the convenience of our people. We will take every strong step for the strength and stability of our country, our population of 140 crores. We have our own independent foreign policy. We will not follow any country based on what our country is doing. We will do whatever is good for our country.”
His comments underline New Delhi’s position that energy purchasing decisions are part of its sovereign economic and foreign-policy framework. India has repeatedly stressed the importance of protecting consumers and maintaining supply security in a global market affected by geopolitical tensions, sanctions and fluctuating prices.
The minister did not indicate any change in India’s energy procurement strategy. Instead, he emphasised that the country would seek supplies wherever they are commercially practical and economically beneficial.
What the new US law covers
The law signed on September 18 authorises and expands statutory sanctions, tariffs and prohibitions focused on Russia, while also extending existing Iran-related sanctions. The White House said the measure, H.R. 5334, renews provisions involving Iran and broadens the legal tools available for action against Russia.
Among its provisions, the legislation targets Russian officials, financial institutions, defence-connected networks and vessels described as Russia’s “shadow fleet.” These ships have been accused of moving energy cargoes while avoiding Western restrictions.
The measure also extends the Iran Sanctions Act for five more years. In practical terms, the legislation combines pressure on Russian energy-related activity with the continuation of sanctions mechanisms directed at Iran.
Before reaching Trump’s desk, the bill won Senate approval in August by a vote of 86-11. The House of Representatives subsequently passed it 262-159. It carries the name of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who had been a prominent supporter of the proposal.
Tariff authority could affect major Russian oil buyers
A major element of the law allows the US president to impose targeted tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. It also covers countries alleged to be assisting Moscow in bypassing oil-related sanctions.
That authority could have consequences for major purchasers of Russian crude, including India and China. The legislation creates a statutory route for tariffs on imports from countries that continue certain Russian energy purchases, increasing the potential trade implications of decisions made in global oil and gas markets.
The tariff power is not automatic in every case. The president may waive the measures under defined conditions, including by certifying to Congress that a waiver is in the US national interest. That provision leaves room for executive discretion while preserving the option of severe trade action.
For India, the debate extends beyond a single supplier or contract. Energy imports influence fuel availability, household costs, industrial activity and broader economic resilience. Singh’s statement framed the issue around those domestic considerations, arguing that India must retain the ability to source energy from markets that offer viable terms.
The new US law therefore adds another layer of uncertainty to international energy trade. Its eventual impact will depend on how tariff powers are used, whether waivers are granted and how affected countries respond. India’s stated position remains clear: its energy choices will be determined by national requirements, economic considerations and an independent foreign policy.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trump tariffs unfair?Trump tariffs unfair is the main topic of this guide. The article explains the context, practical details, and next steps readers should understand.
Why does Trump tariffs unfair matter?Trump tariffs unfair matters because readers are looking for a useful answer, not just a short summary. Good content should match search intent and help them decide what to do next.