The U.S. House has cleared the way for legislation that would let President Trump impose tariffs of up to 100% on nations that purchase Russian oil, according to CNBC, giving him potential leverage against India and China.
Key facts
- The U.S. House paved the way for legislation targeting buyers of Russian oil, according to CNBC.
- The measure would allow tariffs of up to 100% on those countries.
- India and China are identified by CNBC as the countries the measure would give Trump leverage against.
- The development was reported by CNBC on 17 September 2026.
The U.S. House of Representatives has paved the way for legislation that would allow President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy Russian oil, according to CNBC. The report says the move would hand the president a potential new economic tool.
CNBC reported that the legislation would give Trump leverage against India and China in particular. The source does not provide further detail on the two countries’ current purchases.
The measure centres on the ability to impose tariffs reaching as high as 100% on countries that purchase Russian oil, according to CNBC.
CNBC framed its report around an open question: whether Trump will actually use the authority. Having the option available does not guarantee its use.
As reported, the House action clears a procedural path for the legislation rather than representing final enactment or immediate application of any tariffs. The source does not detail a timeline for when, or if, tariffs would take effect.
Why it matters
Tariffs of up to 100% on major economies such as China and India could carry significant implications for global trade, according to how the measure is framed by CNBC. Whether and how Trump chooses to use the authority remains unclear from the available reporting.
Frequently asked questions
What would the new legislation allow Trump to do?
According to CNBC, it would allow President Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy Russian oil.
Which countries are the main targets?
CNBC reports the measure gives Trump leverage against India and China, both major buyers of Russian oil.
Have the tariffs been imposed yet?
No. The source states the House paved the way for the legislation, giving Trump the option, but does not indicate that any tariffs have been applied.