China and India have pushed back against new US measures aimed at putting pressure on Russia, saying the proposed sanctions and tariffs could affect trade and global energy markets.
The US House of Representatives approved the legislation on Wednesday by 262 votes to 159. The bill now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature.
The proposed measures would target senior Russian officials, state-owned companies and businesses linked to Russia’s defence sector. They would also allow the US administration to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries that continue buying Russian oil and gas, including China and India.
China said it opposed the use of economic pressure against countries over their normal trade relations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing’s economic cooperation with other countries was based on equality and mutual benefit.
China and Russia have developed strong trade ties in recent years, with bilateral trade reaching more than $240 billion in 2024. Much of their trade is conducted using their national currencies.
India also raised concerns over the possible impact of the US measures. New Delhi said it would continue buying energy from different suppliers according to market conditions, stressing the need for secure and affordable energy.
The Indian government said it had already discussed the possible effects of the US legislation with American officials. It added that it would take steps to protect the country’s trade and economic interests.
India is one of the world’s largest oil importers and a major buyer of Russian crude. New Delhi has resisted calls to reduce those purchases, saying its large population and economy require reliable energy supplies.
The dispute could add pressure to relations between Washington and two of Asia’s major economies while raising wider concerns about the impact of sanctions on international energy markets.
