Trump Waives Russia-Related Sanctions, Easing Tariff Concerns for India

**Washington, October 17, 2026:** US President Donald Trump has temporarily waived several sanctions and tariff measures targeting Russia and countries purchasing Russian oil and natural gas. The decision could provide short-term relief to major energy importers, including India and China, which faced the possibility of additional trade penalties under a new US law. Trump issued an executive order on Friday, October 16, invoking a provision of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. He informed Congress that suspending the specified measures was in the national interest of the United States. ## India Gets Temporary Relief from Tariff Threat India, one of the major buyers of Russian crude oil, was among the countries potentially affected by the proposed trade penalties. The legislation authorised additional tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from certain countries purchasing Russian-origin oil and natural gas, subject to specified conditions. The proposed measures had raised concerns about the impact on India's trade relations with Washington. The temporary waiver reduces the immediate risk of these additional duties being imposed under the provisions covered by Trump's order. However, the decision does not necessarily mean that all existing trade restrictions between India and the United States have been removed. ## Why Did Trump Suspend the Measures? The new legislation was designed to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its ongoing war against Ukraine. It also sought to discourage countries from purchasing Russian energy or helping Russia avoid international sanctions. Under the law, the US administration has the authority to waive certain penalties after certifying to Congress that doing so serves American national interests. Trump has now exercised that authority, suspending specified sanctions, restrictions and tariff provisions. The administration has also directed officials to monitor international purchases of Russian oil and natural gas and report developments that could justify further action. ## What Could It Mean for Global Oil Markets? The decision could help reduce uncertainty for energy-importing countries and businesses concerned about potential disruptions to international oil trade. Additional tariffs on major buyers could have increased trade costs and complicated energy supply arrangements. For India, the immediate benefit lies in the reduced threat of additional US tariffs linked to Russian energy purchases under the suspended provisions. The longer-term impact will depend on Washington's future decisions, international oil prices and developments in relations with Moscow. The waiver remains subject to further review, leaving open the possibility that the US administration could reconsider its approach. **What Happens Next?** Although Trump's decision offers temporary relief to countries exposed to the proposed penalties, it does not signal a complete end to US pressure on Russia. The administration's monitoring of Russian energy trade will remain important in determining whether the suspended measures stay inactive or are reconsidered in the future.