U.S. President Donald Trump is now eyeing to impose a 500% tariff on India and China over their trade links with Russia. Trump has greenlit a Senate bill that proposes imposing up to 500% tariffs on countries that continue to import oil and energy products from Russia.
Trump Backs 500% Tariff Bill
Senator Lindsey Graham, who is spearheading the bill, revealed during an ABC News interview that Trump encouraged bringing the legislation to a vote. Graham called this development a “Big Breakthrough,” aimed at pressuring Russian President Vladimir Putin over the ongoing war in Ukraine. The bill is designed to penalise nations that fund Russia’s war effort by purchasing its oil, with Graham noting that India and China account for 70% of such exports.
While the bill has 84 co-sponsors and strong support, Trump would retain the power to waive or enforce it if it becomes law. In May 2025, India was the second-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, importing €4.2 billion worth, mostly crude oil.
