India has warned that new US tariffs targeting buyers of Russian oil could affect relations between the two countries, saying it will protect its trade and economic interests.
Key facts
- India warned that new US tariffs over Russian oil purchases could impact bilateral ties.
- New Delhi said it has 'made clear' its determination to 'protect its trade and economic interests'.
- US sanctions aim to weaken Russian oil exports.
- The measures heavily target China and India as Moscow's largest energy buyers, according to Al Jazeera.
India has cautioned that new US tariffs aimed at buyers of Russian oil could affect relations between the two countries, according to Al Jazeera. New Delhi said it has ‘made clear’ its determination to ‘protect its trade and economic interests’.
The warning follows the passage of US sanctions designed to weaken Russian oil exports. According to Al Jazeera, the measures heavily target China and India, which stand as Moscow’s largest energy buyers.
By focusing on the biggest purchasers of Russian crude, Washington’s approach seeks to reduce the revenue Moscow earns from energy sales. India and China, as the primary destinations for those exports, are the countries most directly affected by the tariffs.
New Delhi’s response signals concern that the measures could weigh on its broader relationship with the United States. Rather than detailing specific retaliatory steps, India framed its position around defending its economic interests.
The situation places India in a difficult position between its energy trade with Russia and its ties with the United States. How New Delhi responds in the coming period could shape the trajectory of relations between the two governments.
Al Jazeera reported both India’s warning and the broader implications of the tariffs for China and India on 17 September 2026.
Why it matters
The dispute touches on some of the world's largest economies and a major flow of global energy trade. New tariffs targeting Russian oil buyers could raise tensions between the US and India, two countries with deep and growing economic ties, with potential knock-on effects for markets and diplomacy.
Frequently asked questions
What did India say about the new US tariffs?
India warned the tariffs could impact ties and said it has 'made clear' its determination to 'protect its trade and economic interests', according to Al Jazeera.
What are the US tariffs meant to do?
According to Al Jazeera, the US sanctions aim to weaken Russian oil exports by targeting the countries that buy the most Russian oil.
Which countries are most affected?
The measures heavily target China and India as Moscow's largest energy buyers, Al Jazeera reported.