Trump backs bill to sanction China, India over Russian oil imports
US President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind a bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill aimed at pressuring major buyers of Russian oil, including China, India and Brazil, as Washington seeks to choke off revenue streams funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
The proposed legislation, drafted by a Republican senator alongside Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, would give the White House expanded authority to impose punitive measures on countries that continue purchasing discounted Russian crude despite Western sanctions.
“This bill will allow President Trump to punish those countries that buy cheap Russian oil, fueling Putin’s war machine,” the Republican co-sponsor said, describing the legislation as a powerful economic and diplomatic tool.
Blumenthal said the measure would significantly strengthen Washington’s leverage. “This bill would give President Trump tremendous leverage against countries like China, India and Brazil to incentivise them to stop buying the cheap Russian oil that provides the financing for Putin’s bloodbath against Ukraine,” he said, adding that lawmakers were pushing for a strong bipartisan vote as early as next week.
Since the outbreak of the Ukraine war in 2022, Russia has redirected much of its oil exports to Asian markets after Europe sharply cut imports under sanctions. India, in particular, has become one of Moscow’s largest crude buyers, taking advantage of deep discounts as global energy markets adjusted to the conflict.
On August 23, India overtook other nations to emerge as the single biggest purchaser of Russian crude, a development that drew criticism from Washington and its allies. New Delhi has repeatedly defended its purchases, arguing that energy security and domestic price stability are national priorities.
Analysts say the bill could heighten tensions between the US and key emerging economies, complicating trade and diplomatic ties. If enacted, the legislation would mark a tougher phase in Washington’s efforts to isolate Russia economically and force third countries to reassess their energy dealings with Moscow.
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