India's Russian Crude Imports Hit Record High Amid US Tariff Threat

India purchased a record volume of Russian crude oil in July, with imports reaching 2.8 million barrels per day, even as the U.S. Senate passed legislation that could trigger steep tariffs on its purchases. The move underscores New Delhi's determination to secure energy supplies and maintain its long-standing ties with Moscow, despite escalating pressure from Washington.

The surge in imports came as a waiver on U.S. sanctions lapsed the previous month, according to reports. Russian oil accounted for 55% of India's total crude imports in July, a significant increase that highlights the country's deepening reliance on Moscow as a primary energy supplier. This trend has been building for months, with Russia's share of India's oil imports hitting an all-time high of 48% in June 2026.

The legislative threat stems from the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which passed the U.S. Senate on August 7 with a strong bipartisan vote of 86-11. The bill would authorize President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries that continue to buy Russian oil and gas and rank among the top five purchasers. India, as the second-largest buyer of...