India, China ‘Main Culprits’ and Key Targets of Russia Sanctions Bill, Says US Senator

Washington, D.C.: A senior US senator has said that India and China would be the principal targets of a proposed sanctions bill intended to increase pressure on Russia by curbing its energy revenues.

Speaking about the proposed legislation, the senator alleged that the two Asian economies have continued purchasing significant volumes of Russian oil, helping Moscow maintain a steady stream of export earnings despite Western sanctions imposed since the start of the Ukraine conflict.

Describing India and China as the "main culprits," the lawmaker argued that countries continuing to buy Russian energy should face stronger economic consequences if they undermine the effectiveness of existing sanctions.

The proposed legislation reportedly seeks to expand the United States' ability to impose secondary sanctions on entities and countries engaged in substantial trade with Russia, particularly in the energy sector. Supporters of the bill say the objective is to reduce Russia's financial capacity to sustain its military operations.

India has consistently defended its purchase of discounted Russian crude, maintaining that its energy procurement decisions are guided by national interest, energy security and affordability. New Delhi has repeatedly stated that, as a major energy importer, it must ensure stable supplies for its growing economy while complying with its international obligations.

Indian officials have also stressed that the country's foreign policy remains independent and that its relationships with various global partners are based on strategic and economic considerations rather than geopolitical alignments.

China has likewise continued commercial engagement with Russia, arguing that its trade is legitimate and conducted in accordance with international law. Beijing has opposed unilateral sanctions that are not authorised by the United Nations Security Council.

The senator's remarks come at a time when the United States and its allies are exploring additional measures to tighten economic pressure on Russia. While the proposed sanctions bill has attracted attention in Washington, it must still pass through the legislative process before becoming law.

Analysts note that any move to impose secondary sanctions affecting major economies such as India and China could have broader implications for global energy markets, diplomatic ties and international trade. Such measures may also complicate Washington's strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

The development is likely to be closely watched by policymakers in New Delhi and Beijing, as well as by global energy markets, given the potential impact of any new sanctions regime on crude oil trade and international economic relations.