India warns the US that American tariffs could affect bilateral relations, amid the US Congress vote on a package of sanctions against Russia

India announced on Thursday that it remains committed to ensuring the energy security of its population and will continue to purchase oil and gas from diverse suppliers, depending on market developments. The statement from New Delhi comes after the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at increasing pressure on Russia, just hours after a new American initiative targeting states that purchase Russian energy.

The legislation allows President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries such as India, in order to persuade them to reduce their dependence on oil and gas from Russia. The text also provides for expanding sanctions against Iran and is to be sent to the U.S. president for promulgation.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said that New Delhi has repeatedly warned Washington about the effects of such measures on bilateral relations and the international energy market. India stated that it will take the necessary measures to protect its commercial and economic interests and will cooperate with trade and industry bodies.

The world's third-largest oil importer, India is one of the main buyers of Russian crude, a trade considered by Western countries to be an important source of revenue for Moscow following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.