Washington, D.C.: The US Senate has passed a bill that could allow President Donald Trump to impose 100% tariffs on countries that are among the world's largest purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas, including India and China.

The legislation was approved by the Senate in an 86–11 vote. If enacted, it would give the US President the authority to impose tariffs on the top five buyers of Russian energy as part of broader efforts to increase pressure on Moscow over the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The bill is named in honour of late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a strong supporter of Ukraine who had advocated tougher sanctions against Russia. Following his death, his sister Darline Graham succeeded him in the Senate and supported the legislation.

Speaking after the vote, Darline Graham said the bill is intended to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, who also backed the legislation, said the measure sends a message that Ukraine continues to have bipartisan support in the United States.

The proposed legislation is part of Washington's broader strategy to tighten economic pressure on Russia by targeting countries that continue to purchase large volumes of Russian energy.

If the bill becomes law, the decision on whether and when to impose tariffs would rest with President Trump. No immediate tariff action has been announced.

The development is being closely watched by countries including India and China, both of which have continued importing Russian crude oil following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India has consistently maintained that its energy imports are guided by national interests and energy security requirements while complying with applicable international obligations.