New Delhi : The Donald Trump administration has announced a 60-day national interest waiver related to proposed sanctions and tariffs targeting countries that continue purchasing Russian energy, offering temporary relief to major importers such as India. The decision comes amid concerns that additional trade restrictions could disrupt international energy markets and create economic pressure for both importing nations and the United States.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration would use the two-month period to examine the potential consequences of imposing secondary sanctions and tariffs on countries buying Russian oil. The proposed measures, linked to the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, could include tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian energy.

Rubio acknowledged that countries such as India cannot immediately replace a substantial share of their Russian oil supplies without potentially facing economic consequences. He also emphasised the importance of the US relationship with New Delhi, describing India as an important partner while recognising the challenges involved in rapidly changing established energy supply arrangements.

India has increasingly diversified its sources of crude oil, but Russian supplies continue to account for a significant portion of its imports. Estimates cited in the report put Russia’s share at approximately 35% to 40%, equivalent to around 1.9 million barrels per day.

The waiver comes at a time of uncertainty in global energy markets, with geopolitical tensions and potential supply disruptions adding pressure to oil prices and international trade. The administration’s review is expected to assess how tougher measures against Russian oil buyers could affect energy availability, global market stability and the US economy.

Domestic fuel costs have also remained an important consideration for Washington. The administration’s approach to Russian energy imports has drawn attention amid concerns about the potential impact of international oil restrictions on American consumers and fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections.

India, meanwhile, has reiterated that safeguarding energy security remains a priority. The Ministry of External Affairs has maintained that the country will continue to pursue diversified energy sourcing and make decisions based on market conditions, national requirements and the interests of its population of approximately 1.4 billion people.

The 60-day waiver provides a temporary window for diplomatic and economic assessment as Washington considers its approach towards countries purchasing Russian energy. For India, the outcome could have significant implications for crude oil procurement, domestic fuel costs and broader trade relations with the United States.

The administration’s next steps will determine whether the temporary relief leads to a revised sanctions framework or is followed by stricter measures against major buyers of Russian oil.